Question: My doctor says I have to do Cardiovascular exercise. I know that cardio burns calories but why else does she want me to do it?

Answer: Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the heart muscle. Like any other muscle, “if you don’t use it, you lose it”. You need to stay active to keep your heart healthy and happy.

The heart is a muscular pump that is responsible for carrying blood throughout the body.

Exercising regularly is a vital component of maintaining a healthy heart. Cardiovascular exercise is like weight training for the heart. This is because during exercise the heart has to work harder to deliver oxygen required to the working muscles. Through being challenged in this way, the heart becomes a stronger and more powerful muscle.