Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the US, accountable for around one out of every four deaths, according to the CDC.
There are a number of things that can increase your risk of developing heart disease, including high blood pressure, drinking, high cholesterol, smoking.
But there is good news. Dr. Michael Mosley, the famous doctor on his BBC Radio 4 podcast Just One Thing, uncovered his more health-conscious decision behind the exercise regime.
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According to the doctor, learning push-ups can reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Not bragging, but I try to do 40 press-ups most days
he said on the show.
Dr Mosley said press-ups:
do seem to be a good predictor of heart health
While talking about a recent research paper involving firefighters, he said:
Those who could do 40 press-ups or more in one go when they were in their late 30s were far less likely to have a heart attack in the next 10 years than those who could manage less than 10.
Like any exercise, it’s vital to start gradually, because you don’t want to pull a muscle.
For starters, Dr Mosley recommends doing press-ups against the wall or while kneeling.
If you have an existing back problem, Dr Mosely asks patients to first visit their GP before trying press-ups at home.
Should you get the all OK from your GP, press-ups are said to be a good technique to “strengthen lower back and abdominal muscles”.
In addition, performing press-ups are a “fast and effective way to build upper body strength”.
Plus, the doctor, highlighted that can be done “anywhere” and are good because they don’t require any special equipment.
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“It’s really important you do them correctly, so check out the NHS website,” said the expert.
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