Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and Exercise

12 Mar

Is it safe to exercise if I have heart disease?

For most people with heart disease, exercise can be safe and beneficial, but it’s essential to get approval from your doctor and work with an Exercise Physiologist before starting any exercise routine. In many cases, a doctor will provide guidelines on what types of exercise are appropriate for your specific condition. Exercise can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen the heart, and even reduce the risk of future heart problems.

What types of exercise are recommended for people with heart disease?

Low-impact, moderate-intensity exercises are generally the safest. Some good options include:

Walking
Cycling (on a stationary bike)
Swimming
Yoga (gentle forms)
Strength training (with light weights, after doctor’s approval)
The goal is to improve cardiovascular health without putting too much strain on your heart.

How intense should my exercise be?

The intensity depends on your individual health status and your doctor’s recommendations. In general, you should aim for moderate-intensity exercise—where you’re able to talk but not sing comfortably—about 150 minutes per week. It’s best to start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration as your fitness improves.

Can exercise help manage heart disease symptoms?

A: Yes! Regular exercise can help reduce symptoms like chest pain (angina) and shortness of breath by improving the heart’s efficiency and blood flow. It also helps lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, improve circulation, and decrease stress, all of which are beneficial for managing heart disease.

Are there any signs I should watch out for while exercising?

Yes, it’s important to listen to your body. Stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention if you experience:

Chest pain or discomfort

Shortness of breath that doesn’t improve

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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
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Unusual fatigue or weakness
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How can I monitor my heart rate during exercise?

You can use a heart rate monitor, or you can check your pulse manually. Your doctor can help you determine a target heart rate range that’s safe for you. As a general guideline, for moderate-intensity exercise, you should aim to keep your heart rate at 50-70% of your maximum heart rate (which is roughly 220 minus your age).

For example. If you are 65 years old, your maximum heart rate is approximately 155 bpm (beats per minute). This means that you should aim to keep your heart rate between 77-109 bpm during exercise.

Can I still do strength training if I have heart disease?

Strength training can be beneficial, but it’s important to do it with caution. Start with light weights and focus on proper form. It’s usually recommended to avoid heavy lifting or exercises that put too much strain on the heart. Be sure to consult with your specialist and Exercise Physiologist to develop a safe strength training plan tailored to your condition.

How soon can I start exercising after a heart attack or surgery?

The timing depends on the severity of your heart disease and the type of procedure you had. After a heart attack or heart surgery, your doctor will guide you on when it’s safe to start exercising. Initially, you may begin with very light activities, such as walking, and gradually progress to more intense workouts as you recover. Typically, a cardiac rehabilitation program is highly recommended for safe recovery (supervised by an Exercise Physiologist!)

Are there any exercises I should avoid with heart disease?

You should avoid high-intensity exercises, heavy lifting, and activities that put excessive strain on your heart, like running sprints or lifting heavy weights. Exercises that involve rapid, jerky movements or sudden bursts of energy can be risky. Always check with your specialist or Exercise Physiologist before attempting a new exercise or activity.

Can exercise help prevent heart disease?

Absolutely! Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to prevent heart disease. It helps improve heart function, lowers blood pressure, maintains a healthy weight, reduces stress, and improves blood flow—all of which reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

What should I do if I feel worse after exercising?

If you feel unwell after exercising, take a break and rest. If your symptoms don't improve or if you experience chest pain, dizziness, or severe shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. It’s important to assess your workout routine with your doctor if you notice that exercise makes you feel worse.

How can I stay motivated to exercise with heart disease?

Staying motivated can be challenging, but focusing on the long-term benefits is key.

Celebrate small victories, like improving your endurance or completing a walk. Joining a support group, cardiac specific exercise class (supervised) or working with an Exercise Physiologist  experienced in cardiac care can also help you stay on track. Start by setting achievable goals and gradually work your way up.

Exercising with heart disease can be a powerful tool in managing your health, but it’s crucial to work with your doctor to create a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your specific condition.

By Simon Latham

Exercise Physiologist

Pip Tockuss