Heraldo’s story
“When I’m active, it’s as if my body releases some sort of drug that makes me feel good about myself.”
Getting older hasn’t stopped Heraldo from wanting to be active, but his heart condition and prostate cancer made things more complex. He’s found that some things that were never particularly difficult in the past are now nearly impossible, including some of the exercises he used to do before. By trying a new activity, he found something he enjoys – and something that works out muscles he didn’t even know he had.
How Heraldo gets moving
Heraldo has found that Pilates classes help strengthen him, while also being an activity he’s able to do. He also works moving more into his daily routine, walking, cycling, and chatting with the people he meets along the way.
Since we last spoke to Heraldo, he has been doing workouts at home, going for walks with a friend, cycling to the gym now and then, and also cycling to local shops. He relishes the level of independence being active gives him. In fact, he’s been able to return to watching Arsenal play at home and enjoys the chance to “mingle with the other Gooner faithful.
Yoga, Thai Chi, Pilates and meditation
Immerse yourself in a session of yoga and meditation or get moving with Tai Chi and Pilates. Pick a workout that’s within your comfort zone and stay active in a way that works for you.
Heart Conditions
When you’re living with a heart or circulatory condition it’s normal to worry about getting active. You may not know where to start, or what activity is safe for you. We’re here to support you. Look after your heart health by adding more movement into your day - small changes can make a big difference.
Building activity into your routine
Getting active doesn’t need to be about doing traditional exercises. It can just be about doing things that fit into your daily routine, as and when you can. Building activity into your regular routine is one of the best ways you can start to build a new habit.