Stomp Out Heart Disease with SilverSneakers^®

February is American Heart Month

Philadelphia, PA - February 9, 2012 - February is American Heart Month, and with heart disease continuing to rank as the number one cause of death among Americans, adopting heart-healthy habits is smart. Together heart disease and stroke pack a deadly punch, claiming numerous lives every year. The good news is that making lifestyle changes can make a huge difference in one's ability to stave off heart disease and stroke while improving overall health.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), regular physical activity plays an important role in maintaining good heart health — as little as 30 minutes a day can help reduce the risk for heart disease. Medical experts recommend aerobic exercise for its ability to strengthen the heart and lungs, and help the body use oxygen more efficiently. Please be sure to talk with your doctor before you begin any exercise program and about the level of physical activity that is best for you.

Adopting an active lifestyle with the SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a great way to get moving in the fight against heart disease and stroke. SilverSneakers, a social support and exercise program designed to keep our Medicare eligible members healthy, provides an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle direction, and social opportunities. The program is available at nearly 10,000 participating locations nationwide, giving Independence Blue Cross (IBC) members endless opportunities to exercise heart healthy habits while having fun and making friends!

In recognition of American Heart Month, SilverSneakers is supporting the AHA's effort to educate Americans about the seriousness of heart disease and stroke, and stress the importance of prevention. During this month and throughout the year, the SilverSneakers premier network gives eligible members access to a variety of venues where they can get the physical activity they need to keep chronic conditions that contribute to heart disease — hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity — in check. Many sites are equipped with treadmills, free weights, and other fitness equipment, as well as the signature SilverSneakers Fitness Program classes, designed specifically for Medicare-eligible members and taught by certified instructors.

As you adopt heart-smart habits, remember that regular physical activity:

• improves circulation and oxygen use;
• promotes healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels;
• increases energy and endurance;
• improves bone strength and balance;
• decreases stress and improves sleep.

*Independence Blue Cross offers the SilverSneakers Fitness Program at no additional cost. With the SilverSneakers Fitness Program, Keystone 65 HMO and Personal Choice 65SM PPO members receive a basic membership at a participating location. Amenities such as treadmills, weights, heated pool, and fitness classes are included with a basic membership (not all amenities are available at every location).

About Independence Blue Cross

Independence Blue Cross is a leading health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania. Nationwide, Independence Blue Cross and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.1 million people. For 73 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered high-quality health care coverage tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, and health care professionals. Independence Blue Cross's HMO and PPO health care plans have consistently received the highest ratings from the National Committee for Quality Assurance. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.