Recent Blog Articles

Late-stage cervical cancer on the rise: What to know

A mindful way to help manage type 2 diabetes?

Close relationships with neighbors influence cardiovascular health in Black adults

Why play? Early games build bonds and brain

5 numbers linked to ideal heart health

Rating the drugs in drug ads

Postpartum anxiety is invisible, but common and treatable

The popularity of microdosing of psychedelics: What does the science say?

Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally

Is pregnancy safe for everyone?
Exercise & Fitness
Exercise may heal the heart as well as prevent future problems
- By Kelly Bilodeau, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
A daily walk and twice-weekly strength training can help to reverse heart stiffness and improve cardiovascular health.
When it comes to heart health, a lot of the focus is rightly on prevention. Eat right and exercise, and you’ll have a healthier heart when you get older. But what if you’re already older and your heart is showing signs of trouble? Is exercise going to do anything to help you?
As it turns out, the answer may be yes.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author

Kelly Bilodeau, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
You might also be interested in…

Starting to Exercise
What can improve your mood, boost your ability to fend off infection, and lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and colon cancer? The answer is regular exercise. It may seem too good to be true, but it's not. Hundreds of studies demonstrate that exercise helps you feel better and live longer. Starting to Exercise answers many important questions about physical activity. It will also help guide you through starting and maintaining an exercise program that suits your abilities and lifestyle.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!