Fitness for all – Step Aerobics Effective in Modifying (Cholesterol) Profiles
You may have known that step aerobics can burn calories and is a fitness exercise for the heart. But did you know that research specifically has found that step aerobics can step up your good cholesterol levels?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in all parts of the body. When there is too much cholesterol in your blood, cholesterol can build up on the walls of your arteries and cause blood clots. Cholesterol can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack.
A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found step aerobic exercise significantly raised the HDL- cholesterol levels of the study participants. This small, eight-week study followed 45 sedentary female Turkish college students.
Fifteen of the women participated in step aerobic exercise and another 15 did traditional aerobic dance. A 45-minute session was done for three days a week. The remaining 15 women in the study continued to be sedentary.
At the study’s conclusion, the investigators from Baskent University in Ankara found that both groups of active women showed a significant reduction in their overall cholesterol levels compared to the sedentary group. Regularity and frequency of fitness exercise tends to bring HDL levels up more dependably.
The more vigorous the exercise is, the better, from the standpoint of overall health benefits. It can provide a challenging workout and is a great choice for those who enjoy exercising to music in a group. Step aerobic, also helps develop the hamstrings, with complimentary development of the gluteals (the buttock muscles) and the quadriceps.
Precaution Please CDI I It your doctor before you attempt any exercise regimen.
Get your cholesterol and triglyceride levels tested. High blood cholesterol can clog your arteries and keep your heart from getting the blood it needs. This can cause a heart attack. Triglycerides are a form of fat in your blood stream. High levels of triglycerides are linked to heart disease in some people. People with high blood cholesterol or high blood triglycerides often have no symptoms, so have your blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked regularly. If your cholesterol or triglyceride levels are high, talk to your doctor about what you can do to lower them. You may be able to lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels by eating better and exercising more. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your cholesterol.
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight raises your risk for heart disease. Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) to see if you are at a healthy weight. Eat a healthy diet and exercise at a moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Start by adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet. Take a brisk walk on your lunch break or take the stairs instead of
the elevator.
