Exercising regularly is one of the easiest things you can do to
guard against diseases of the cardiovascular system. But if you
have coronary artery disease, speak with your doctor and follow
his or her advice on physical activity. Also, if you have
chronic angina, you will need to take precautions so as not to
trigger an episode. But as long as you have your doctor's okay,
something as simple as walking every day can be a great way to
strengthen your heart, even if you have health issues. Exercise
strengthens your heart and lungs, improves your circulation,
lowers your blood pressure, keeps your weight down and helps
your body maintain steady blood sugar levels. You may experience
these benefits by engaging in as little as 30 minutes of low- to
moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week.
If you have angina, take frequent breaks -- or consider breaking
those 30 minutes up into smaller 10-minute walks here and there
throughout the day. People with certain conditions or health
histories, such