3. Set exercise goals
Exercise gets your heart pumping. This helps your body use oxygen better and makes your heart stronger. It can also decrease your blood pressure and the amount of fat in your blood. Start your exercise program slowly, especially if you haven’t been active for a while. Begin with short sessions, such as 10-minute walks. Gradually increase the length of your workouts to at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
4. Watch your blood pressure
Make sure your blood pressure is in the healthy range or under control. Blood pressure is the force against the walls of your blood vessels as blood flows through them. The harder your heart works, the greater your risk for having a heart attack.
Making smart lifestyle choices like eating a diet low in sodium, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, reducing stress, and limiting alcohol, will decrease your risk of developing high blood pressure.