How does exercise help heart disease?
Exercise: • lowers blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart • increases good HDL cholesterol that transports fat away from the arteries and back to the liver for processing • may reduce levels of bad LDL cholesterol that can form fatty deposits in the arteries and contribute to heart disease • improves circulation by preventing blood clots that can lead to heart attack and stroke • increases fat loss • helps weight-loss • builds muscle mass. It also reduces stress by releasing feel-good hormones called endorphins. Stress and anxiety can slow recovery from a heart attack.