A fitness and exercise routine is a great way to improve your heart health. Other numerous benefits including mood improvement and weight loss can indirectly help the function of your heart. Here are some ways an exercise routine can help: Reduces your risk of developing heart disease and can help prevent existing heart disease from getting worse Lowers your risk of developing high blood pressure Lowers blood pressure in some people who have high blood pressure Raises your high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol Lowers your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad," cholesterol Lowers the amount of triglycerides, a form of fat, in your bloodstream Helps you lose extra weight, which can strain your heart Makes your heart and lungs work more efficiently Fitness Routines Aerobic Exercise Benefits of Exercise Designing a Program Heart Rate Range Physical Activity Strength Training Stretching