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5 Heart-Healthy Moves the Whole Family Can Try

Healthy hearts start with movement—and it doesn’t take a gym to get the benefits. Building heart-healthy habits as a family can be simple, energizing, and even fun! Cardiovascular activity helps strengthen the heart muscle, reduce blood pressure, and improve circulation. According to the American Heart Association, even young children benefit from regular aerobic activity (AHA – Physical Activity Recommendations). 

Here are 5 moves that support heart health for all ages: 

1. Go for a brisk walk or bike ride.
   A 20-minute family walk after dinner helps everyone digest, bond, and destress. Walking is an accessible and low-impact way to keep hearts healthy.
2. Dance it out.
   Put on your favorite playlist and have a family dance party in the kitchen. Dancing raises your heart rate and helps kids release energy.  
3. Play classic games.
   Hopscotch, jump rope, or tag offer cardio and laughs in one go. These activities improve coordination while building endurance.  
4. Do fitness challenges.
   Who can do the most jumping jacks? Set fun, age-friendly goals together. Consider tracking your progress as a family for added motivation.  
5. Join a virtual cardio class.
   Stronger Texas classes are free and open to all fitness levels. Classes include options like Zumba, kickboxing, and family-friendly dance workouts you can enjoy at home. 

Bonus: Teaching kids about heart health now sets them up for lifelong wellness. Making fitness part of your family’s routine helps build knowledge and confidence. 

Need help starting a heart-healthy routine? Our free health coaches are here to help—in English and Spanish. Learn more and register at healthiertexas.org.

More Ways to Stay Active

Looking for more ways to stay active this Summer? Join us for Sweet Summer Habits– 10 Weeks of Free Wellness Education and Fun! Kicking-off June 1st, join us anytime this Summer. We’re bringing families, parents, and community leaders an exciting prehistoric-themed wellness campaign designed to make healthy living fun, engaging, and accessible for all ages. 

Sources:

• CDC,  
• American Heart Association,
• MyPlate.gov