You probably know that exercise is good for you but you may not realise just how vital it is to keeping you healthy.   Evidence shows that there is a link between physical inactivity and CHD and other conditions such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

The heart needs to be worked to reduce the risk of CHD. The recommended level of activity for adults wanting to stay healthy is at least 30 minutes of exercise - like brisk walking or cycling - on at least five days a week. In the UK only 37% of men and 25% of women achieve this.

Regular exercise helps prevent heart disease by increasing blood flow to the heart and strengthening its contractions so that it can pump more blood with less effort.

Exercise can also reduce stress, which may also be a factor in heart disease.

Although you lack the power to change some risk factors - such as family history - you can control your lifestyle choices.  Thirty minutes a day can make all the difference.

Choose an activity that interests you and that is exerting enough to raise your pulse level and make you breathe more quickly.  Examples include brisk walking or cycling - see the page on Exercise Tips.

There are many mass participation events in Greater Merseyside to encourage you to become more active.  Wherever possible we will give links to local events.  You'll find these on the Events Section within the Communications pages of this website.