• They don’t feel as tired
• They have less stress
• Their energy level increases
• Weight control or weight loss
• Improved circulation
• Lower blood pressure
• Healthier cholesterol levels
• Less depression and anxiety; better mood.

How much should I do?
How much and what kinds of activity you can do will depend on your specific condition.  

Your healthcare team will work with you to develop an appropriate exercise plan. Often they'll start by giving you a stress test to measure your heart function during exercise (either walking on a treadmill or riding an exercise bike). This helps your doctor know how much activity your heart can handle.

Cardiac rehabilitation programs
If you’re not used to regular physical activity or feel nervous about starting, your doctor may recommend a cardiac rehabilitation program. A cardiac rehab program helps you start exercising slowly in a supervised setting, either at a hospital or outpatient center. You’ll  be monitored by healthcare professionals for discomfort or changes in vital signs and symptoms while you exercise. Over time your tolerance for exercise is likely to increase.

Many people find it easier to stick with a structured program — and then stay physically active when it's over. Cardiac rehab programs often provide additional classes in smoking cessation, nutrition and stress management. 

Check with your health insurance company before beginning cardiac rehab as programs aren't always covered.

Learn the basics with our Cardiac Rehab Web site
Order our Active Partnership cardiac rehab workbook and DVD

Tips for being active
Make time every day for moderate aerobic physical activity like walking, swimming or biking. You should always stay within your physician's recommendations and your own comfort zone.

  DO...

• Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers.
• Start slowly. Gradually build up to at least 150 minutes of moderately vigorous physical activity per week (or whatever your doctor recommends). That's 30 minutes of activity, five or more times per week  If you can’t manage 30 minutes at a time, try two 15-minute sessions or three 10-minute sessions to meet your goal.
• Exercise at the same time of day so it becomes a habit. For example, you might walk Monday through Friday before lunch or dinner.
• If you aren’t on fluid restrictions, drink a cup of water before, during and after activity.
• Ask family or friends to join you. You'll be more likely to keep exercising with company.
• Track your activity on a printable log or online.
• If you miss a day, plan a make-up day or add 10–15 minutes to your next session.
• Vary your activity to keep your interest up. Walk one day, swim the next time, then go for a bike ride.
• Join an exercise group, health club or community fitness facility. Many churches and senior centers offer exercise programs, too. (Get your doctor's permission first.)
• Look for opportunities to be more active during the day. Park farther from your destination, walk the mall before shopping, choose a flight of stairs over an escalator, or take 10–15 minute walking breaks while watching TV or working.
• Add strength and stretching moves to your routine, if your doctor allows them. 

DON'T...

• Get discouraged if you stop for awhile. Get started again gradually and work up to your old pace.
• Perform isometric exercises that require holding your breath, bearing down or sudden bursts of energy. If you're taking part in a class or structured rehab program, ask the leader or therapist what isometric exercises are.
• Get involved in competitive or contact sports such as football or soccer.
• Engage in any activity that causes chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or lightheadedness. If you have any of these symptoms, stop what you're doing right away and call your healthcare provider.
• Exercise right after meals, when it's very hot or humid, or when you just don't feel up to it.
  

This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 03/18/09.