Information for Patients

Exercising with Cardiac Disease

Many patients with a history of heart disease can benefit from a program of regular physical activity. Exercising can give you the ability to do more, without being limited by fatigue or angina. After you have had a complete medical evaluation, your physician may give you a personalized exercise prescription, which defines the type, intensity, frequency and duration of exercise. A period of monitored exercise sessions supervised by qualified personnel can help you become familiar with the exercise prescription and learn how to regulate your activity level during exercise

TYPE OF EXERCISE

Aerobic exercise involves large muscle groups in repetitive motions, with low resistance. Walking, dancing, cycling, swimming and cross-country skiing are examples. Choose activities that you enjoy doing and fit easily into your schedule.

INTENSITY OF EXERCISE

The recommended level of exercise will be deter mined from an exercise stress test. You will be given a target heart rate and a corresponding rate of perceived exertion to help you regulate your level of exercise. There is no advantage to exercising at levels higher than recommended because you can increase your risk of complications.

DURATION OF EXERCISE

Exercise sessions should last between 20 and 40 minutes. Physical activity should be preceded by a warm-up-period and followed by a cool-down-period of about 10 minutes each.

FREQUENCY OF EXERCISE

Exercise should be performed three to five times per week. Initially, you should exercise on alternate days to allow for adequate rest and recovery.

EXERCISE PRECAUTIONS

Start slowly and progress gradually. If the following symptoms occur, contact your doctor before continuing with the exercise program:

• Discomfort in the chest, arm, neck or jaw during exercise.
• Dizziness or fainting during exercise.
• Shortness of breath during exercise. The rate of breathing increases during exercise, but should not be uncomfortable. You should be able to talk easily during exercise. If you have difficulty talking, the intensity of activity may be too high.
• Aches and pains in the joints. Although there may be some muscle discomfort following exercise, painful joints or back discomfort may indicate poor technique.

From: Dr..................................

Prepared by :Dr. Mark Smilovitch. Assistant Professor McGill University andAttending Staff Cardiologist Royal Victoria Hospital Montreal, Quebec

May be copied and distributed to patients