February is American Heart Month

  

"In acknowledgment of the importance of the ongoing fight against cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved December 30, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101), has requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating February as "American Heart Month." NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim February 2012 as American Heart Month, and I invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on February 3, 2012.  I also invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease."                                                                              Presidential Proclamation, January 31, 2012                                                                 

American Heart Month, sponsored by the American Heart Association, is a time to educate Americans on what we can all do to live heart-healthy lives. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the USA. Heart disease kills an estimated 630,000 Americans every year. The most common type of heart disease in the USA is coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to a heart attack. Like most heart disease, you can greatly reduce your risk for CAD through lifestyle changes. In some cases, medication might be required.

Although risk factors increase for men 45 or older, and for women 55 or older, many risk factors for heart disease are controllable and preventable.  Losing weight, quitting smoking, no, low or moderate alcohol consumption, proper diet, activity and exercise, managing stress and achieving a happier outlook on life can all greatly reduce your risk for developing heart disease, and can enhance a healthier and happier lifestyle all the way around. Getting regular exams at the doctor and 'knowing your numbers' is another great way to keep informed and aware about your own health. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can cause heart disease, so talk to your doctor about your own numbers to make sure your cardiovascular system is doing well.

One simple way to take a healthier step toward a healthy heart is to pedal instead...without leaving your seat! Whether you're sitting in an armchair or a wheelchair, now you can pedal your way toward cardiovascular fitness with The Pedlar® from Rehabmart. Fully assembled right out of the box, this convenient portable exerciser couldn't make it any easier for you to start increasing strength, cardiovascular function, range of motion and endurance.

The smooth and easy pedaling doesn't jar painful arthritic joints while resistance can be adjusted to your own personal comfort and skill level. The changing weather is no concern, you can 'ride' this bike indoors, from the comfort of your own seat! The sturdy steel frame and durable chrome finish will stand up to years of hard and heavy use. Another great feature of The Pedlar® is that you can also pedal with your hands and arms to get an upper body workout.

Celebrate American Heart Month by issuing your own proclamation. Proclaim to get yourself in better shape this year by eating healthier, staying happier and exercising more. No matter what blocks to mobility you may have experienced in the past, you can now enjoy a healthier heart and cardiovascular system by bringing more movement into your life and Rehabmart would like to assist you with your healthy heart endeavors with a great selection of cardiovascular exercise equipment at the Cardio Exercise Equipment and Heart Rate Monitor page.