Strength training is one of the most effective “bang for your buck” habits for heart health — and UK national guidelines recommend muscle-strengthening activities at least twice per week. This post gives a simple plan that works: 2 x 20-minute sessions with warm-up/cool-down, safe intensity guidance (talk test + Borg RPE), and clear progressions so you build strength without overdoing it. Ideal for beginners, returners, and anyone who wants a routine that actually sticks.

April is Stress Awareness Month. This Heart Mag issue shares a calm, repeatable plan for heart health: 3 anchors (day starter, movement minimum, evening close), a realistic weekly template, and two SMART challenges for April. It also links back to March’s guides on walking, resistance bands, the clock change, and reducing doomscrolling.

Exercise after cardiac surgery should be structured, gradual, and confidence-building. This guide explains why Phase 3 cardiac rehab is the best next step, how to structure safe sessions (warm-up, main phase, cool-down), how hard it should feel (talk but not sing), when to stop, and an 8-week walking progression using FITT principles (progress one variable at a time).

Exercise after a heart attack should be structured, gradual, and confidence-building. This guide explains NSTEMI vs STEMI basics, why Phase 3 cardiac rehab is the gold standard, how to structure safe sessions (warm-up, conditioning, cool-down), how hard it should feel (talk but not sing), when to stop, and an 8-week walking plan using FITT principles (progress one variable at a time).

UK clocks go forward on 29 March 2026. That “lost hour” often hits sleep, energy and motivation. This post gives a simple 10-day plan (3 days before + 7 after): keep sessions easy–moderate, use warm-up/cool-down, and prioritise consistency over intensity. Includes beginner and intermediate templates plus SMART challenges to stay on track.

Doomscrolling isn’t just “bad news” — it’s the pattern of scrolling past your own stopping point, often for reassurance or distraction, then feeling worse. This post shares a simple 3-Switch Plan (time windows, no notifications, replace one scroll with movement), plus “move while you scroll” tips and a 5–7 minute posture reset for phone neck and rounded shoulders.

Can music help in cardiac rehabilitation? This guide looks at the research behind music in exercise and coronary heart disease, explains how My Movement Medicine playlists are structured from warm-up to cool-down, and includes key studies on adherence, self-efficacy, and exercise experience.

Resistance bands are a simple, affordable way to build strength at home with controlled effort. This post explains how to use the Push + Pull band plans, how hard it should feel (talk test + Borg RPE), how to structure 2–3 sessions/week, and how to progress safely without overdoing it.