Heart disease: Exercising for a healthy heart
What do I need to know about exercise and coronary artery disease?
Exercise does not have to be strenuous to be helpful. It is important to include exercise as part of your daily routine. The American Heart Association recommends that you exercise for at least 30 minutes on most, preferably all, days of the week. As your fitness improves, you can exercise longer and harder. Exercise programs usually include:
- Stretching for 10 to 15 minutes, to help warm up muscles before exercising to avoid straining muscles and other injuries. It will also help gradually increase your heart rate. Beginning yoga or tai chi exercises might help increase your flexibility.
- Walking, cycling on a stationary bike, using a treadmill, low- or no-impact aerobics such as water aerobics or swimming—all of which strengthen your muscles, help you keep your balance, and improve your conditioning.
- Strength-building exercises using light weights, to help increase the tone and strength of your muscles.
- A cool-down period.
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| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: January 8, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition | |
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