American Heart Month: How HR Can Help Improve Employee Heart Health

February and Valentine’s Day bring hearts to mind (and chocolate, of course). But it’s also the perfect time for HR leaders to raise awareness about heart disease —the leading cause of death in the U.S. The good news? Up to 90% of heart disease cases are preventable with simple lifestyle changes like healthy eating, not smoking, and staying physically active.

While exercise alone isn’t the entire solution, it plays a powerful role in reducing risk. Learn more about heart disease and how HR leaders help employees build heart-healthy habits that last far longer than Valentine’s chocolates.

Heart Health Risks Span Every Generation

According to the National Institutes of Health, 6.7 million Americans are living with cardiovascular disease, and about 1 in 4 will develop it during their lifetime. 

And heart disease isn’t just a problem for the elderly. It’s becoming increasingly common among younger adults. While the risk increases with age, there’s been a dramatic increase in heart failure deaths among younger adults. In fact, heart failure deaths among people under 45, spiked 906% between 1999 and 2021, likely due to rising rates of obesity and diabetes

Under Pressure: The Leading Cause of Heart Disease

High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for heart attacks and strokes because it puts extra strain on the heart and arteries. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, but the encouraging news is that taking steps to manage it can dramatically reduce the risk. Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range not only protects the heart and arteries but also helps prevent serious complications like heart attacks and strokes. 

Movement is Medicine

Regular exercise is one of the most powerful tools employees have to lower their blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease. In fact, a single session of aerobic exercise can lower blood pressure right away, with the effect lasting for hours.

On the flip side, research shows that people who are inactive are nearly twice as likely to develop heart disease. By encouraging physical activity and providing the right support, HR leaders can help employees reduce their risk of chronic diseases and take charge of their heart health.

Cardio: A Heart-Healthy Habit

Regular aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, or cycling is great for the heart. It helps lower high blood pressure, improves circulation, and strengthens the heart muscle. Incorporating at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week can make a significant difference in heart health. 

Strength Training: More than Just Muscles

Don’t underestimate the power of strength training. Resistance training not only builds muscle mass and strength, but it can also improve cardiovascular health. Studies show that combining resistance training (like lifting weights) and aerobic exercise leads to even greater improvements in CVD risk factors, lowering the risk for obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. In fact, people who engage in both types of exercise have a 40% – 46% lower risk of death from all causes and CVD compared to those who are inactive. 

Why Aaptiv Works for Employee Heart Health

Aaptiv’s AI-powered app makes better heart health accessible and enjoyable by tailoring programs to each employee’s interests, needs, and fitness level. With thousands of on-demand options, it’s easy for employees to find workouts that fit their lifestyle and help reduce their heart health risks. Highlights include: 

  • Aerobic Workouts: From treadmill and outdoor running to walking, rowing, boxing, and more, there’s something for everyone. 
  • Heart Rate Zone Training: Synch with an Apple Watch to stay in the optimal training zone to maximize every minute of the workout.  
  • Strength Training: Whether it’s bodyweight exercises, free weights, or gym equipment, Aaptiv offers a variety of options to build strength and boost cardiovascular health. 

February’s American Heart Month is the perfect opportunity for HR leaders to spotlight the importance of employee heart health. By offering a fitness benefit, like Aaptiv, HR leaders can help employees prioritize their heart health. 

Learn more about Aaptiv employee fitness and wellness benefit solutions

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