Being sedentary is not just a lack of exercise, it is a potentially independent risk factor for heart disease and stroke, according to a science advisory from the American Heart Association. Sedentary behaviors include sitting, reclining, or laying down while awake as well as reading, watching television or working on the computer.

"The fact is that the more moving we all do, the healthier we'll become," says Tyrene K. Benjamin, exercise physiologist with the Wellness Center at Saint Thomas Rutherford. "The challenge people face is making their health a priority and consistently incorporating fitness into their everyday routine. Exercise and food fads come and go so one must discover what activities they enjoy doing that can be sustained as a part of their schedule."

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cardiovascular disease accounted for 26 percent of deaths in Rutherford County in 2013, with stroke claiming an additional 5 percent.

"Fitness is a lifestyle choice, but it starts with making the decision to change your habits. Ask yourself why you want to be healthier, and use your answer to fuel realistic goals. One simple approach is to start with small changes that add up to big results in the end. For example, incorporating a walking routine is an incredibly effective means to get moving," says Benjamin.

The American Heart Association recommends that Americans strive for 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day to achieve its weekly recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise.

"Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk during your lunch break or wake-up early for a 15 minute walk to start your day. You can check out your local parks or resources like those we offer at the Saint Thomas Wellness Center," says Benjamin.

For many Murfreesboro residents, one motivation to get moving is the American Heart Association's annual Rutherford Heart Walk. With the walk being just a month away on Saturday, September 17 at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, step to it. For information or to sign up a team, visit RutherfordHeartWalk.org. Funds raised go for research, education and public health programs fighting the No. 1 and No. 5 killers of Americans, heart disease and stroke.

Our chair is Dr. Roy Thompson, DDS of Comprehensive Family Dentistry in Murfreesboro.

The Rutherford Heart Walk is nationally sponsored by Subway Restaurants and locally presented by Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital.

Sponsors:

• TrustPoint Hospital
• Vanderbilt Heart
• Adams Place
• Claibourne & Taylor Insurance
• First Vision Bank
• Haynes Bros. Lumber Co.
• Lee Company
• Murfreesboro Medical Clinic
• Pinnacle Financial Partners
• Redstone Federal Credit Union
• Regions Bank
• Dr. Roy Thompson, DDS
• SEC, Inc.
• TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center