Sports for a healthy heart

“Swimming is probably one of the healthiest sports for most people, because it involves no risky stress peaks and is kind on the joints. The sports doctor spells out the benefits: “The heart and circulatory system are further trained and strengthened because they have to work against the water pressure on the body.”

Expert tip: “To save energy, make sure you have a proper technique, and feel free to swim in cooler water for a shorter distance – this will also boost your circulation.”

Running is one of the more intensive sports for your heart, which is why you shouldn’t feel you have to complete a marathon in record time!

“Who says you need to push yourself as hard on every run as you do at work? I advise my patients to take it easier and listen to their bodies. Pushing yourself too hard can be just as unhealthy as getting no exercise at all.”

“The risk of overexertion is generally higher when you’re playing against an opponent. Both players want to win and it’s hard to admit when you’ve reached your limit. If you need to take a break for longer than the actual rally, it’s maybe time to choose a different sport. Or work on your condition.

Expert tip: “If you play a particularly intensive sport like squash, you also need something relaxing to balance it out.”

Rowing is a great way to strengthen the cardiovascular system and develop lung capacity.

Expert tip: “Make sure you have the proper technique to avoid wrist or lumbar spine problems.”

Rowing is the only sport in which you cross the finish line backwards, says Schmidle. “You can only gauge your progress by how far you’ve come, and not how far you still have to go. That’s mentally challenging.”

“Yoga is a philosophical teaching that comprises a series of physical and mental exercises. For example, special breathing techniques are trained during a period of meditation. The exercises help you become one with your consciousness. Your heart benefits twice over from the relaxed exercise. What’s more, breathing is key to every sport, which is why yoga is advisable before and after any exercise.”

“Far Eastern traditions, health exercises and martial arts such as qigong and tai chi are ideal for relaxing the body and finding your balance. It’s all about harmonising and regulating the internal body flow. The slow exercises are particularly kind on the heart and cardiovascular system. Here, too, you learn to breathe correctly and how to influence your heart rate. Take a quick test: when you hold your breath, your pulse speeds up.”