Post-Surgery Exercise: Wisconsinite’s Heart-Healthy Journey

On Jan 27, 2025

In PEWAUKEE, Wisconsin, the American Heart Association (AHA) warns that inactive lifestyles could lead to serious health issues like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and several forms of cancer. The AHA encourages individuals to engage in 150 minutes of aerobic activity each week to maintain cardiovascular health.

Key Takeaways

The American Heart Association advocates for 150 minutes of aerobic activity weekly for optimal cardiovascular health

Following open-heart surgery, Cindy Milgram values regular movement

Heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and different types of cancers are associated with a sedentary lifestyle, according to the AHA.

Walking is recommended by the AHA as a simple and effective means of improving health and increasing activity

Walking is the simplest and most recommended way to introduce regular activity into your routine, says the AHA. This is a strategy Cindy Milgram can attest to, even after undergoing open-heart surgery.

Exercising consistently is not only good for physical health, Milgram emphasizes, but also serves as a mental release. It helps you focus and be mindful of your body’s signals, aiding in maintaining heart health.

Milgram, despite leading an active lifestyle, was surprised to be diagnosed with a heart murmur in 2021.

“I had no symptoms,” Milgram recalls. “The only reason I found out was during an annual physical – a check-up that was delayed by a year due to COVID.”

Milgram had to have open-heart surgery to mend a leaking mitral valve, a process that demanded a six-week recovery period.

Cardiac rehab, Milgram mentions, played a crucial part in her return to her regular lifestyle. “Although not all women are prescribed cardiac rehab, we strongly endorse it because of its proven benefits,” adds Milgram.

ProHealth West Wood Health and Fitness Center‘s fitness coordinator, Maddie Goetsch, explains the current exercise guidelines for cardiovascular health: 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity.

“Starting doesn’t require strenuous activity. Even simple activities like walking, cycling, or using a treadmill to get your heart rate up can make a significant difference,” explains Goetsch.

For Milgram, exercising is more than just a routine – it’s a key component of a heart-healthy lifestyle. She now serves on the AHA board to advocate for the importance of healthy living.

“Eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising daily, even if it’s just a 30-minute walk, can make all the difference,” says Milgram. “Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented if you take care of your health from an early age.”