You may think you know all there is to know about your heart and exercise. But myths abound about how much — and what kind of — physical activity you need. Here, Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Director Erik Van Iterson, PhD, shares 22 key facts about heart-healthy exercise:
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Learn more about our editorial process.
Losing belly fat can reduce your risk for chronic health conditions — try focusing on a diet high in lean protein, exercising regularly, reducing stress and getting quality ZZZs
It’s best to exercise before or after your fast, instead of during it
Absolutely! In fact, in many ways, exercise is key to recovery
The exercise — which you’ve probably been doing since grade school — can be intimidating, but proper form can help
Cardio is great for improving cognition, but strength and balance training are just as important
Exercise lowers risk for heart conditions, improves mental health and reduces visceral fat that can compromise your organs
Kids’ yoga can help kiddos become more aware of their physical, mental and emotional selves
This technology can benefit your workouts by helping you hit your target heart rate, resulting in better overall health and wellness
Your metabolism may torch 1,300 to 2,000 calories daily with no activity
A gentle touch in all the right places may help drain your sinuses
Pump up your iron intake with foods like tuna, tofu and turkey