Exercise to reduce the risk of heart disease in women

The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity, 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of the two.

That's about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. If that's more than you can do, start slowly and build up. Even five minutes a day of exercise has health benefits.

For a bigger health boost, aim for about 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise a day, five days a week. Also do strength training exercises two or more days a week.

It's OK to break up your workouts into several 10-minute sessions during a day. You'll still get the same heart-health benefits.

Interval training — in which you alternate short bursts of intense activity with intervals of lighter activity — is another way to maintain a healthy weight, improve blood pressure and keep your heart healthy. For example, include short bursts of jogging or fast walking into your regular walks.

You can also add exercise to your daily activities with these tips.

• Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
• Walk or ride your bike to work or to do errands.
• March in place while watching television.