Jeté Your Way to Heart Health 

Do you dread the idea of running? If so, you’re not alone! Loping down the street can be intimidating, boring, or even painful for some people because it’s hard on the joints.

What you may enjoy more – especially on National Ballet Day – is dancing your way to heart health.

Cardiovascular exercise like dance increases your heart rate and improves blood flow and oxygen levels. And while music alone can lower heart rate, breathing rate and blood pressure, combining it with dancing can increase good cholesterol (HDL) and decrease bad cholesterol (LDL) levels. This helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, heart attack and stroke.

Dancing is good for more than just the heart. It also improves lung function, coordination, balance and flexibility. And it’s a great way to relieve stress by releasing endorphins – the “feel good” hormones.

Today’s email subject references a jeté, which is a ballerina jump from one foot to the other, but you don’t have to be a professional to reap the benefits of dance.

Whether you prefer a high-energy dance class or a slower-paced spin around your living room floor, there’s a style of dance that fits every person’s preferences and fitness level.

So, put on your dancing shoes, and get moving!

Only about half of adults in the United States meet physical activity guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise and two days of strength training per week. However, dancing can help a 180-pound person lose 11 calories per minute. And, to help you get started, here’s a heart-themed playlist to help you find your groove!

If persistent pain keeps you from daily physical activities, like dancing, it may be time to see your doctor. Your healthcare provider can diagnose the source of your muscle or joint pain. You may be battling arthritis or other treatable conditions.

You don’t have to be an Olympian to hurdle over bad habits. We know a few ways to help you dodge temptation that we’ll cover next time.