To your health: A walk a day keeps the heart doctor away

November 16, 2015 at 8:36PM
CARLOS GONZALEZ ï cgonzalez@startribune.com February 6, 2008 ñ Edina, MN ñ Macyís ñ Pedestrians walked by Macyís in downtown Minneapolis, MN on Wednesday.
Pedestrians walked by Macy's in downtown Minneapolis. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Take steps to protect your heart by picking up the pace in your walking game.

Brisk walks for just 20 minutes a day can cut your risk of heart disease by 30 percent, according to two large studies from Harvard University. Walking at a fast clip helps lower blood pressure.

As with any exercise routine, getting started may be the toughest part. Make it easy with these tips: grab a buddy and keep track of your steps.

about the writer

about the writer

Allie Shah

Deputy editor

Allie Shah is deputy local editor. She previously supervised coverage of K-12 and higher education issues in Minnesota. In her more than 20 year journalism career at the Minnesota Star Tribune, Shah has reported on topics ranging from education to immigration and health.

See Moreicon