The American Heart’s Association’s Life’s Essential 8 are the key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, as defined by the American Heart Association. Better cardiovascular health helps lower the risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems. Jennifer Toole, local community impact director at the American Heart Association, talks about one of the life’s essential 8 – be more active.
• Our mission at the American Heart Association is for people to live longer, healthier lives. Moving more is an important factor in creating this a reality.
• Blue Zones: Blue Zones are regions in the world where people live longer and healthier. One of the commonalities of blue zones is that the people there move more, naturally. Movement is incorporated into everyday activity. We should think about exercise this way as well. You don’t have to have access to a fancy gym to incorporate more movement into your day.
• Exercise is like a workout for your heart and brain. Getting active, even just going outside for a walk, can help you feel better. It can reduce stress, improve your mood and help you feel recharged.
• 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (walking, dancing, gardening) or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity (running, swimming, jumping rope) or a combination of both, spread throughout the week
• Try to include activities that make your muscles stronger at least twice a week. Lifting weights, squats, lunges and crunches are great examples of strength training exercises
• Take a few minutes to stretch. Whether you are standing or sitting for long periods, try to walk or move a little to help your body stay flexible and strong
• Kids should get at least 60 minutes of exercise every day. This includes play and structured activities
• Change your mindset: Exercise isn’t another to-do on your list. Think of it as a moment you dedicate to yourself to help you unplug, recharge and clear your mind
• Personality: The key to sticking to an exercise plan is finding something that you will want to do on a regular basis. Are you a more social person? Then group classes or joining a community may be best for you
• Visit Heart.org/lifes8 for more information about Life’s Essential 8, tips for living a healthy lifestyle, and much more!
Jennifer Toole, Community Impact Director
American Heart Association
http://www.Heart.org/Lifes8
WHHI Daily News Anchor: Betsy McDaniel
August 2025
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