Heart disease: Walking for a healthy heart

Why is walking good for my heart?

Your heart is a muscle with fibers that allow it to contract and pump blood. When used during aerobic exercise, the heart becomes more efficient and pumps more blood with each heartbeat. Exercise, such as walking, also increases your muscles' ability to take oxygen from the blood. A more efficient heart can pump more blood with each heartbeat and deliver more oxygen and nutrients to other organs.

Test Your Knowledge

1. Walking is a form of aerobic exercise that elevates the heart rate and increases the efficiency of the heart.

1. True
2. False

Continue to How can I stay motivated with a walking program?
Return to Heart disease: Walking for a healthy heart

Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: October 8, 2008
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.