The Importance of Heart Calcium Checks and How Exercise Can Help

Heart health is one of the most critical aspects of overall wellbeing, yet it’s often overlooked until symptoms arise. One powerful tool for early detection is the heart calcium check—a simple scan that can reveal the presence of calcium in your coronary arteries. Paired with the right lifestyle habits, including regular movement, it can play a pivotal role in preventing heart disease.

What is a Heart Calcium Check?

A heart calcium check, also known as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, is a non-invasive test that uses a CT scan to detect calcium deposits in your heart arteries. These deposits indicate atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in your arteries, which can increase your risk of heart attack.

Unlike cholesterol tests or blood pressure readings, a calcium scan provides a direct view of your heart’s arteries, helping doctors assess your true risk of cardiovascular disease—even before symptoms appear.

Key benefits include:

• Early detection of hidden heart disease

• Personalised risk assessment

• Guidance for lifestyle or medical interventions

Why Exercise Matters for Heart Health

While a heart calcium check identifies potential risks, exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent and manage heart disease. Regular physical activity helps your heart by:

1. Improving circulation: Strengthens your heart muscle, improving blood flow to vital organs.

2. Reducing plaque buildup: Exercise can slow the progression of arterial plaque and lower overall cardiovascular risk.

3. Lowering blood pressure: Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels, reducing strain on arteries.

4. Managing weight and blood sugar: Supports a healthy metabolism, which is crucial for heart health.

5. Boosting mental health: Reduces stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact the heart.

Even moderate activities, such as brisk walking, swimming, or Pilates, can significantly benefit heart health when done consistently.

How Habitual Health Collective Supports Heart Health

At Habitual Health Collective, we take a holistic approach to wellbeing. For New Farm residents looking to protect their heart health, we combine:

• Exercise Physiology & Small Group Sessions to strengthen the cardiovascular system

• Personalised exercise programs tailored to your health and fitness level. Strength and cardiovascular. 

• Guidance on stress reduction, nutrition, and lifestyle habits that support heart health. With our psychologist, nutritionists and movement practitioners. 

By pairing regular heart checks with ongoing exercise and lifestyle strategies, you can take proactive steps toward a longer, healthier life.

Key Takeaways

• A heart calcium check detects early signs of coronary artery disease before symptoms appear.

• Exercise and lifestyle changes are powerful tools to prevent heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

• New Farm residents can access personalised guidance at local allied health clinics like Habitual to stay proactive about their heart.

Your heart is worth it—start with a calcium check and pair it with regular movement to protect your most vital muscle.

Reference List

1. Budoff, M. J., et al. (2006). “Measurement of Coronary Calcium by Cardiac CT in Population-Based Studies.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 47(1), 196–204.

2. Greenland, P., et al. (2018). “2018 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Management of Blood Cholesterol.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 73(24), e285–e350.

3. Blaha, M. J., et al. (2010). “Coronary Artery Calcium and Cardiovascular Risk.” Circulation, 122(7), 693–702.

4. World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). “Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).” [https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds)]

5. American Heart Association (AHA). (2023). “Physical Activity and Heart Health.” [https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults]

6. Thyfault, J. P., & Booth, F. W. (2011). “Lack of Exercise Is a Major Cause of Chronic Diseases.” Comprehensive Physiology, 2(2), 1143–1211.

7. National Heart Foundation of Australia (NHFA). (2022). “Heart Disease Prevention and Management Guidelines.” [https://www.heartfoundation.org.au]