Wisdom Wednesdays: Why your heart is the ultimate 'use it or lose it' organ - and what you need to do about it.

In this edition of Wisdom Wednesdays, the focus is on the incredible malleability of the human heart, inspired by my personal experience with open-heart surgery. The episode delves into historic and revolutionary studies, starting with the 1966 Dallas Bedrest Study, which showcased the drastic effects of inactivity on cardiovascular health. It then explores follow-up studies that demonstrated how structured exercise programs can not only reverse cardiac damage but also make the heart more efficient and youthful, even in middle-aged individuals. I explore the importance of consistent, smart exercise, combining moderate aerobic activity and high-intensity intervals, to maintain a healthy heart into older age. The show concludes with a powerful reminder of the human body's need for physical activity, supported by an impactful quote from Professor Frank Booth. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection 00:41 The Dallas Bedrest Study: A Groundbreaking Experiment 01:41 The Impact of Bedrest and the Power of Retraining 03:54 Long-Term Effects and Follow-Up Studies 05:31 Modern Research: Reversing Cardiac Aging 06:23 Exercise Protocols for Heart Health 12:57 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.