By Amanda Keck–
February is here and for most people, our minds wander to the sometimes magical – other times daunting – Valentine’s Day. Hallmark stocks the shelves at local stores with cards and candy galore. Men are in search of the perfect gift, while women are swooning all around Philly, hoping for flowers, jewelry and heart-shaped chocolate. But behind all the frenzy lives a cause that should be closer to our hearts. American Heart Month kicked off on Monday, February 1 and emphasizes the importance of heart health all year long.
The American Heart Association goes full throttle to promote being active and eating healthy to aid in a healthy heart. One campaign, Go Red For Women, asks that men and women wear red this Friday, February 5. On this day, National Wear Red Day, wearing red indicates your support in the fight against heart disease and stroke. 1 in 3 women die of heart disease and stroke each year, yet it is 80% preventable.
While you plan your outfit for this Friday, remember that there are many ways to get and stay active in the winter at low or no cost: bundle up and take a walk with your family; ride bikes around the city parks; go ice-skating for free around the city; play basketball outside or toss a football. There are so many choices to get active. The most important thing to do is just move. The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least five days a week for a total of 150 minutes, but then it’s your moves, your way!
So grab a scarf and some warm socks and go outside and get some Vitamin D and do your heart a favor. Don’t forget to post to social media and share your favorite way to move using #MyMovesMyWay and show us your red “get-moving” outfit for National Wear Red Day this Friday using #PhillyGoesRed!
