Teaming up with NFL Alumni Association for Men's Health
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men in the United States according to the American Heart Association 2025 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics report.
In response, the American Heart Association and the NFL Alumni Association are asking men to learn the Life’s Essential 8™ playbook. Life’s Essential 8™ is focused on the eight key measures defined by the American Heart Association to improve and maintain cardiovascular health.
What are Life’s Essential 8?
Eat Better
Eat a healthy diet consistent with American Heart Association recommendations.
Video: Al Smith, former NFL linebacker and NFL Alumni lead ambassador
Be More Active
Get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (or a combination of both) each week.
Video: Brad Hopkins, former NFL offensive and NFL Alumni ambassador
Quit Tobacco
Don’t smoke, vape or use other tobacco products and avoid second-hand smoke.
Video: Byron Williams, former NFL wide receiver and president of the NFL Alumni Dallas chapter
Get Healthy Sleep
Aim for an average of 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day.
Video: Johnny Walker, former NFL running back and president of the NFL Alumni Austin chapter
Manage Weight
Reach and maintain a healthy body weight (body mass index less than 25 kg/m2).
Video: Ken Coffey, former NFL safety and senior vice president and chief operating officer of the NFL Alumni Association
Control Cholesterol
Get your cholesterol checked and talk to your health care professional about your numbers and how they impact your overall risk.
Video: Brad Edwards, former NFL safety and chief executive officer at the NFL Alumni Association
Manage Blood Sugar
Keep fasting blood sugar less than 100 mg/dL or an A1C of less than 5.7%.
Video: Roman Oben, former NFL offensive tackle and president of the NFL Alumni New York/New Jersey chapter
Manage Blood Pressure
Keep blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg.
Video: Perry Kemp, former NFL wide receiver and president of the NFL Alumni Georgia chapter
Coming Soon: My Life Check
My Life Check is a quiz that helps people assess and track their heart health information and gain a better understanding of their risk of heart disease and stroke.
Be the first to take the My Life Check Quiz when it is live by signing up for the Healthy for Good newsletter. You’ll also get regular tips, recipes, and inspiration to build healthy habits when you sign up.