Physical inactivity increases the risk of heart disease.
It both contributes directly to heart-related problems and increases the chances of developing other conditions that raise heart disease risk, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. But the good news is that regular physical activity can help you reduce your risk of coronary heart disease, according to the first Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health as well as a National Institutes of Health expert panel. For those who have heart disease, regular, moderate physical activity lowers the risk of death from heart-related causes. However, if you have heart disease, check with your doctor first to find out what kinds of activities are best for you. Physical activity has many other benefits.