Keep your heart healthy at Florida State Parks
Florida State Parks offer outdoor settings for recreation and exercise, from crystal-clear springs to shady trails.
Hiking, biking, paddling, walking and running are all great ways to keep in shape, and studies have shown that natural environments make exercise more fun!
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, but there are many outdoor activities that can lower the risk factors. As with any other muscle in the body, the heart becomes stronger when it is used and exercised. Higher intensity activities, such as biking or jogging, make your heart pump harder and faster. Running for 30 minutes a few times a week helps increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as good cholesterol. One study published by the American College of Cardiology showed that regular runners had a 45% lower risk of death from heart disease or stroke when compared to non-runners.
Paddling a kayak, canoe or paddleboard is a great recreation option for those who prefer low-impact exercise. To maximize cardiovascular benefits, maintain a steady pace when paddling or alternate between slow and fast intervals, aiming to keep your heart rate up for at least 10 minutes and your arms moving rhythmically.
The restorative and calming effect of being outdoors lowers stress, increases blood flow to the brain and improves mood and self-esteem. Spending time outside has also been shown to help lower high blood pressure, which in turn helps your heart! If you couple that with relaxing outdoor activities such as birdwatching, nature photography or lounging in a hammock you're sure to feel refreshed.
Are you ready to get outside and start improving your heart health? There’s something for everyone at Florida State Parks!
