Publications
Partners
An inactive lifestyle is one of the top risk factors for heart disease but, luckily for you, it's a risk factor that you can change with even moderate exercises such as brisk walking each morning or evening.
But what if you're already a recipient of heart disease? Shouldn’t you be resting and not exercising at all?
While people with heart disease were previously warned to “take it easy” and not stress their hearts too much, the opposite is now true, and cardiac rehabilitation programmes are encouraging exercise to improve cardiac function and prevent further damage.
Why exercise for your heart?
The experts agree that the benefits of regular exercise, especially aerobic exercise, are numerous. It can:
• Lower blood pressure
• Strengthen your cardiovascular system
• Improve circulation
• Help your body use oxygen better
• Improve symptoms of congestive heart failure
• Improve muscle strength and tone
• Reduce body fat and maintain a healthy weight
These are just a few of the benefits that will directly affect the functioning of your heart and cardiovascular system.
Able-bodied individuals who are free of heart disease have greater levels of endurance when it comes to exercise. However, it’s safe to say that people with heart disease need to monitor their endurance levels when participating in any form of exercise.
Getting started
Before embarking on any exercise programme, it's always wise to first consult your doctor to help you find a regimen that matches your level of fitness. Ask your doctor questions such as:
• What type of training is okay for me?
• How much can I do?
• How often should I do it?
• Will it affect my medication?
If you're not entirely confident with your doctor's response, it's advisable that you enlist a fitness instructor who is skilled in working with heart patients. A personal instructor can be expensive, but you only need to train with him or her for a few weeks before continuing on your own.
And try not to see it as a quick solution or cure to your heart disease – otherwise you run the risk of over-exerting yourself and possibly bringing on cardiac arrest.
The results of exercise are always gradual, so it's important that you pace yourself and, above all else, keep it enjoyable.
Tips for safe exercising
As someone with heart disease, you need to know when to exercise and when to stop. Keep the following in mind:
• Make sure your exercise routine is well paced and balanced
• Rest regularly between sets
• Ask your doctor or instructor about the dangers of isometric exercise
• Avoid exercising outdoors when it's too cold, hot or humid
• Stay hydrated and drink water even before you feel thirsty
• Stay away from extremely hot and cold showers or saunas after exercise
• Ask your doctor what your heart rate should be when you exercise
• If you stop due to bad weather or illness, gradually get back into your routine when you're feeling better
