VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Making strides in bettering your heart health could start by lacing up a pair of sneakers.
The American Heart Association recommends maintaining an active lifestyle for several health benefits, including reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
"At least 150 minutes of moderate, maybe 75 minutes of vigorous activity, and a combination of those per week really goes a long way in lowering the risks of diseases," said Aaron Thompson, executive director and CEO of Olde Towne Medical & Dental Center in Williamsburg.
Physical activity has also been connected to improvements in mental health and cognitive function.
"Higher fitness levels are linked to better attention, better learning, working memory, problem-solving... and, most importantly, a lower risk of depression," Thompson said.
Health officials are now urging people to prioritize moving around more, as the American Heart Association reports one-quarter of all adults in the U.S. sit for longer than eight hours each day.
Thompson believes adding enough exercise to a daily routine may be easier than some people think.
"Swapping just thirty minutes of sitting with low-intensity physical activity reduced the risk of death by roughly seventeen percent," Thompson said.
Getting active can also help manage your weight and strengthen bones and muscles.
So, how do you get started?
Thompson said you could begin with just 20 minutes of walking per day, incorporate your pets into your active regimen, and get outdoors to take advantage of the benefits of natural sunlight.
"Number one — [there is] no cost, it reduces stress and promotes a sense of belonging and improved mood," Thompson said. "And now that the weather is starting to turn, you know, folks are more apt to want to be outside."
You can also join people across Hampton Roads who are taking steps to improve their health.
The American Heart Association is hosting a community walk on Wednesday, April 3rd at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront in honor of National Walking Day.
The event starts at 5:30 p.m. at Atlantic Avenue and 24th Street. It is free to participate.
Click here to register.