February is American Heart Month—a time when red dresses and heart logos remind us to take care of the muscle that keeps us alive. As a physical therapist, I see the link between movement and heart health every day. While heart care often brings to mind cardiologists and medications, physical therapists are essential allies in the “medicine” of movement.

Your heart is a muscle, and like your biceps or hamstrings, it needs regular exercise to stay strong. Starting a new exercise routine—especially if you have a history of heart issues or are easing back into activity—can be daunting. That’s where physical therapy can make a difference.

Let’s explore why movement is vital for heart health and how a physical therapist can guide you safely to a stronger cardiovascular system.

The Importance of Movement for Heart Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The good news? Much of it is preventable, and regular physical activity is one of your strongest defenses.

When you move, your heart pumps faster to deliver oxygen-rich blood to your muscles. Over time, this training makes your heart more efficient and lessens how hard it has to work when you’re at rest.

Consistent exercise helps your heart in multiple ways:

  • Lowers Blood Pressure: Physical activity slows heart rate and lowers blood pressure.
  • Improves Cholesterol: Exercise increases HDL (“good” cholesterol) and decreases LDL (“bad” cholesterol).
  • Supports Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the heart.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Regular movement helps control chronic inflammation, a key factor in heart disease.

How Physical Therapists Support Heart Health

Many people think of physical therapy only for injuries or post-surgical recovery, but PTs are movement experts trained to understand the complex connection between your muscles, joints, and cardiovascular system.

We don’t just treat injuries—we prescribe exercise as medicine.

Safe and Gradual Progression

Jumping into intense exercise too soon—especially if you’ve been sedentary or have a heart condition—can be risky. Physical therapists assess your current fitness, monitor your vitals (such as heart rate and blood pressure), and design a program that increases intensity at a safe pace. Our goal is to strengthen your heart without overloading it.

Overcoming Barriers to Exercise

Pain or stiffness can make heart-healthy movement challenging. It’s hard to walk briskly if your hip hurts, or to swim if your shoulder aches. We address these orthopedic barriers—treating the root cause so you can get moving safely. By resolving pain, we empower you to prioritize your heart.

Supporting Your Journey to Heart Health

While our practice does not offer specialized cardiac rehabilitation, we are dedicated to helping you build heart-healthy habits that fit your lifestyle and needs. Whether you’re starting out, returning to activity after time away, or managing orthopedic challenges, physical therapists are here to guide you. We focus on whole-body wellness, partnering with you to design safe, effective exercise plans and address any barriers—such as pain or mobility issues—that may stand in your way. Our goal is to empower you to move confidently and consistently, supporting your cardiovascular health every step of the way.

4 Physical Therapist-Approved Ways to Move More

You don’t need a marathon training plan to see heart benefits. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week—just over 20 minutes a day.

Here are four PT-approved ways to add movement to your day:

1. The “Talk Test” Walk

Walking is accessible and low impact. To boost your heart health, use the “Talk Test”: walk fast enough that you can still talk, but not sing. If you’re able to belt out a tune, pick up the pace!

2. Sit-to-Stand Intervals

This exercise strengthens your legs and increases heart rate:

  • Sit in a sturdy chair.
  • Stand fully, without using your hands if possible.
  • Sit back down under control.
  • Repeat for 30 seconds, then rest for 30 seconds. Complete 3-4 intervals.

This move mimics a squat and promotes good circulation.

3. Stair “Snacking”

Short activity bursts add up. If you have stairs at home or work, climb them frequently. Just two minutes of stairs, three times daily, offers strong cardiovascular benefits over time.

4. Upper Body Ergometer (Arm Cycle)

If leg pain limits walking or running, try an arm cycle (available in gyms and some clinics) or punch the air with light weights while seated. Any sustained movement—whether upper or lower body—benefits your heart.

The Value of a Personalized Exercise Plan

Online resources offer general exercise plans, but they can’t take your health history or unique challenges into account. Working with a physical therapist means you get a Personalized Plan of Care—specifically designed to keep you safe and on track.

We evaluate risk factors, show you how to monitor your exertion, and provide expert guidance and accountability. Having a professional support you is often the missing ingredient for staying consistent and motivated.

Conclusion: Put Your Heart in Motion

This American Heart Month, reframe movement as a prescription for lifelong health—not a chore. Your heart is resilient, but staying strong takes effort and intention.

If you’re hesitant to get active due to pain, uncertainty, or a history of cardiac issues, don’t guess—get assessed. A physical therapist can guide you every step of the way toward a healthier, stronger heart.

Schedule an evaluation with a physical therapist today. Together, we’ll help your heart thrive.

Meta Title: A Physical Therapist’s Guide to American Heart Month
Meta Description: Discover how physical therapy supports heart health. Learn safe exercises and why a PT is key to your cardiovascular wellness this American Heart Month.