The mere mention of the word ‘exercise’ and many people think of any excuse to avoid making that effort. It is human nature to be lazy.

As children in our carefree days we didn’t give a thought about all the running around we were doing or consider what foods we were eating. For many of us, as we grow into our mature years our metabolism slows down, other responsibilities and commitments take precedence, leaving very little time to relax. And that’s just the point, as mature adults with hectic lives, we want to relax, but to maintain a healthy lifestyle it is important to exercise as well.

When one thinks of exercise, walking, running and swimming come to mind, but what is happening inside your body? When exercising regularly the aim is to get your heart beating a little faster than it would whilst resting, which increases the flow of blood around the body. Unlike the exterior visible parts of our body, most people do not think of the heart as a muscle which needs to be exercised. It is in fact a vital organ which pumps the blood around our body, so without it we cannot live.

So what are the health benefits of regularly exercising your heart?

• Strengthens the heart muscle so it can pump effortlessly and efficiently

• Improves the blood flow through the heart by keeping the vessels flexible and pliable

• Reduce the blood pressure so the heart can beat more easily

• Cholesterol level is reduced and regulated therefore reducing the risk of a heart attack

• Blood sugar level is reduced and controlled

A healthy heart helps to prevent the onset of further health issues especially obesity and diabetes. Overall you will have more energy, and feel good in yourself. If you are not used to exercising then it is advised to start gently and gradually exercise regularly. It is important to do something that you enjoy and the key is to exercise regularly. If exercising is really not for you then try to increase your heart rate by walking briskly, try to walk up hills and take the stairs rather than a lift. It is best to do something rather than nothing.

As your fitness improves you may want to use some exercise equipment or join a gym. By looking after your heart you are continuously improving the quality and longevity of your life and by making a few simple changes your healthy lifestyle will improve.