Be more active to help prevent CHD
The heart is a muscle which benefits from exercise and physical activity. Exercise makes it stronger and able to pump more blood around your body with less effort. It also helps to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level.
As you exercise your blood vessels dilate so they carry more blood, it moves more easily through your body and carries away the bad cholesterol.
Being active burns more calories which helps you to manage your weight. It also helps you use up extra glucose in your blood, reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
You should speak to your GP or health professional before you start any new physical activity. They'll be able to advise you on the level of exercise you should be taking.
Online resources to help you get more active
We are Undefeatable
The We are Undefeatable website will help you get more active. You can also get inspiration from other people living with long term conditions.
Stockport Council
Walking can be a gentle way to start getting active and you can build up as your health improves. Visit the Stockport Council website to find out about local health walks in the Stockport area.
If you're interested in taking up a new activity or joining a local group visit the Stockport Local website.
Stockport LifeLeisure
Stockport LifeLeisure provides lots of opportunities to help you get more active.
This includes:
- PARIS: a specialist exercise referral scheme
- Smile: low impact and gentle exercise if you live with a long term conditions
They also run a cardiac rehabilitation class. You'll need a referral to attend this session so ask your health professional or the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team at Stepping Hill Hospital.
You can also visit our move more webpages for general information about how to get more active.