February: Heart Health Month

20 February, 2026

February is Heart Health Month at Raintree Athletic Club

Did you know that heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States? According to the American Heart Association, millions of Americans are affected each year, making Heart Health Month the perfect time to focus on prevention, cardiovascular fitness, and proactive wellness.

At Raintree Athletic Club, we believe true fitness starts with a strong, healthy heart. As a leading gym in Fort Collins, our mission is to help members improve cardiovascular health through exercise, education, and community partnerships.

Why Heart Health Matters

Heart disease is often referred to as a “silent killer” because symptoms can develop slowly, or not at all, until serious damage occurs. That’s why preventative care and lifestyle habits are critical.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies several major risk factors for heart disease, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Elevated blood sugar
  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Chronic stress

Routine screenings beginning at age 18 are recommended to monitor these risk factors and support long-term cardiovascular health.

Free Cholesterol Screenings in Northern Larimer County

If you’re a resident of the Health District of Northern Larimer County, you may qualify for a free cholesterol test during February.

Eligible communities include:

  • Fort Collins
  • Timnath
  • LaPorte
  • Wellington
  • Livermore
  • Bellvue
  • Red Feather Lakes
  • Parts of west Windsor
  • Free for Health District residents
  • $15 for non-residents
  • Appointments strongly recommended
  • Call 970-224-5209 to schedule

Preventative screenings are one of the most effective ways to manage cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk.

Raintree Athletic Club & Community Wellness

Raintree Athletic Club proudly partners with the Health District of Larimer County throughout the year to bring health screenings and wellness services directly into our club.

As a full-service Fort Collins health club, we support heart health through:

Explore our full list of amenities and programs here:
👉 https://raintreeathleticclub.com/

If you’re looking for a supportive fitness community that prioritizes total wellness, Raintree offers expert coaching, modern equipment, and a welcoming environment for every fitness level.

The Best Exercises for Heart Health

Regular exercise is one of the most powerful tools for preventing heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Heart-healthy workouts include:

  • Brisk walking
  • Running or jogging
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Interval training
  • Group cardio classes

Combining cardiovascular exercise with strength training improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, supports weight management, and strengthens the heart muscle itself.

Make Heart Health a Year-Round Priority

While exercise is essential, optimal heart health also includes:

  • Regular doctor checkups
  • Balanced nutrition
  • Quality sleep
  • Stress management
  • Avoiding tobacco use

At Raintree Athletic Club in Fort Collins, we believe fitness is about longevity, energy, and living well, not just aesthetics.

This February, commit to protecting your most important muscle. Your heart works for you every single day. Let’s build one that’s stronger, healthier, and ready for the long run.