February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness of the number-one cause of death in the United States. United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region is doing its part by spotlighting a few things you can do to live a heart-healthy life.

Last time, we offered a few tips for better eating. Now let’s take a look at exercises that can strengthen your heart.

Yeah, we know, exercise is not everyone’s favorite thing. The American College of Sports Medicine estimated that fewer than two-thirds of us get the recommended amount. The good news is the “recommended amount” isn’t all that much: 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least three times per week.

Once again, WebMD offers up some sound exercise advice:

•If you’re just starting out, or if you have an underlying medical condition, be sure to check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

•Stretch arms and legs before and after your workout to enhance flexibility and avoid injury and muscle strain.

•Choose aerobic activity, which benefits your cardiovascular system the most. Aerobic exercises including brisk walking, running or jogging, biking or spinning, swimming, dancing, rowing—basically anything that gets your heart rate to 60-85 percent of its maximum for an extended period.

•Strength training involves repeated muscle contractions until the muscle gets tired. This can involve weightlifting, pushups, planks, squats and lunges. It’s important to do these carefully and with a doctor’s guidance, especially if you have a medical condition.

Heart-healthy exercise strengthens your heart, lowers blood pressure, improves sleep, burns fat and improves self-esteem. And it can be fun!

The American Heart Association, which sponsors American Heart Month, has lots of suggestions for improving your heart health. Check them out at this link.