*Helps you lose weight, which lowers your bad cholesterol, or LDL.
*Stimulates enzymes that exile LDL from your bloodstream.
*Expands the size of the protein particles, or lipoproteins, that carry LDL and make it harder for them to accumulate.
In honor of September’s Cholesterol Awareness Month, exercise in the office as you reduce your cholesterol and improve your health.
1. Walk
From parking in the back of the parking lot to taking the stairs instead of the elevator, use every opportunity to walk to your destination. You could even store a spare pair of sneakers in your desk and hit the halls or sidewalk during your lunch breaks. If these options don’t work for you, walk in place while talking on the phone and request walking meetings with coworkers.
2. Bike
If you’re lucky enough to work in a building with a gym, hit the exercise bikes before or after work. You could also commute on your bike or set up a small exercise bike in the corner of your office. Alternatively, pedal your legs as if you were on a bike while you work to take advantage of this exercise’s benefits.
3. Move
Depending on your job, you may be unable to walk or bike on the job. Any movement you can incorporate into your daily routine is better than sitting still all day. So, stand up and stretch, do squats, jump in place, sit on a yoga ball or dance down the halls.
These movements all improve your heart health.
Exercising regularly won’t reduce your cholesterol overnight. However, taking small steps and staying active in the office can help you stay healthy. Be sure to see your doctor for regular exams and additional information on keeping your cholesterol in check, too.
