Walking is one of the most adaptable ways to rebuild cardiovascular fitness and confidence. This guide explains how hard to walk, how to progress, what warning signs to notice and how to build a sustainable programme.

Warm weather can make exercise feel harder, especially with heart conditions, diabetes, respiratory problems or other long-term conditions. This guide explains how to stay active safely, adjust intensity, manage hydration and recognise warning signs.

UK government physical activity guidelines recommend muscle-strengthening activities at least 2 days per week, and for older adults (and those at risk of falls), balance and coordination work at least 2 days per week. This guide shares a “minimum effective” plan you can actually stick to: two 20–30 minute sessions per week with warm-up, simple strength moves, and MMM Balance Level 1 (supported) or Level 2 (unsupported) drills, plus clear progressions and SMART challenges.

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.

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).

Heart Mag - March 2026 is all about walking. This post explains how to make walking count for heart health using a simple session structure (warm-up, steady walk, cool-down), Borg RPE and the talk test, plus a gradual progression plan that avoids doing too much too soon. It includes a 7-day walking streak and a 4-week base-building challenge.