Heart disease: Exercising for a healthy heart

When you have coronary artery disease, it is very important to exercise regularly. If you aren't already active, your doctor may want you to begin an exercise program. Even if you can only do a small amount of exercise, it is better than not doing any exercise at all.

Key points

• Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program. Your doctor may do an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) and possibly an exercise stress test to assess how much activity your heart can safely handle.
• After you start exercising, stop your activity immediately if you experience chest pain, feel faint or lightheaded, or become extremely out of breath.
• Start an exercise program, such as walking, cycling, or jogging. Try to do moderate activity at least 2½ hours a week. Studies show that exercise effectively reduces the number of fatal heart attacks in people with coronary artery disease.¹
• A complete exercise program consists of aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching.
• Set goals you can reach. If you expect too much, you are likely to become discouraged and stop exercising.

 What do I need to know about exercise and coronary artery disease?
 Why do I need a regular exercise program?
 How can I get started on an exercise program?
 Where to go from here

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