Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) includes diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels. Stroke, coronary artery disease and chronic heart failure are the most common cardiovascular diseases in Australia and are the leading causes of death. CVD risk factors include inactivity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and obesity.
Some CVD risk factors, such as genetic-related family history, can't be changed however they can be addressed and modified with a fitness routine. The non-genetic Cardiovascular Disease risk factors can be reduced when following a tailored fitness plan that will work for you and your body.
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in Australia, with 120 deaths attributed to CVD every day. One in six Australians are affected by CVD, with prevalence increasing with age. Despite improvements over the last few decades, it remains a high burden on the economy.
Exercise & Cardiovascular Disease
Exercise and strength training has many benefits for those with cardiovascular disease including:
- Lowering levels of cholesterol
- Managing blood sugar and blood pressure
- Improving muscle strength/endurance
- Improving oxygen consumption (effectiveness of oxygen being delivered to organs and being used)
- Weight management
- Improving cardiorespiratory health
Moderate intensity aerobic exercise should be undertaken on most to all days of the week and strength training should be completed at a minimum of twice per week.
If you or someone you know has cardiovascular disease or risk factors associated with it, visit your Exercise Physiologist at Kieser today for a suitable tailored exercise program or join a Kieser Kardiac group class*
Article written and sourced by Kieser Malvern Exercise Physiologist, Nicole Shue
*Only offered at select centres
