Exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain overall health. Several studies have suggested that people who exercise regularly are less likely to develop heart disease or experience sudden cardiac events. In fact, a study published in the journal Circulation found that people who met the recommendation for moderate physical activity had a 22-25% lower risk of dying from Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), whereas those who exercised 2-4 times the recommendation had a 28-38% lower risk.
However, when it comes to exercising with a heart condition, there are a few measures to take. Talking to the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr LK Jha, Associate Director and Head Unit-II-Cardiology, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, shared that people who are not accustomed to regular intense exercise or those with pre-existing heart conditions can experience additional stress on the heart if they indulge in vigorous physical activity, such as running on a treadmill. Hence, here’s what to keep in mind.
Also Read: 6 Easy Exercises For Heart Health That You Can Do At Home
Do Not Overexert, Go Low-Impact
Excess of anything is bad for health, including exercising, especially if you have a heart condition. Dr Jha warned against exceeding your physical capacities and advised heeding your body's signals. People who experience chest pain, dizziness, or extreme fatigue during exercise should not ignore the signs and must consult a doctor immediately.
Additionally, people with pre-existing heart problems should opt for low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling to reduce stress on joints and minimise injury risk.
If You Have Been Unwell, Take A Break
Do not strain yourself if you have recently been ill or suffered a cardiac event. Exercising while still unwell can place additional strain on the cardiovascular system, compromising the recovery process.
Moreover, the body may require sufficient rest to return to its normal state. It's essential for individuals with heart conditions to prioritise their health, consult with healthcare professionals, and only resume exercise when given clearance to do so.
Warm-Up Sessions Are Crucial
A warm-up session allows your body to relax and allows the coronary arteries to open up, which prevents heart complications. It is important for people with a pre-existing heart condition to ease into the exercise routine rather than going all at once. Dr Jha therefore recommended gradually increasing the exercise intensity, allowing your body to adapt effectively.
Exercise Under Supervision
Supervised exercise for individuals with heart conditions ensures safety. Experts in the field help provide personalised exercise programs that consider the specific needs and limitations of individuals with cardiovascular concerns. They possess the knowledge to read and monitor vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, during exercise to ensure that the intensity remains within safe limits. Moreover, supervision allows for a timely response to any signs of distress or discomfort, providing a prompt and appropriate intervention if needed.
Also Read: 4 Important Numbers You Should Know For Your Heart Health
Stay Hydrated
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), staying adequately hydrated helps your heart easily pump blood through the body. It also helps your muscles work efficiently, which, in turn, supports your exercise routine.
Additionally, drinking plenty of water, especially if you are taking medications that affect fluid balance, helps prevent dehydration, which can lead to problems such as dizziness, feeling tired, swollen feet, a headache, or even life-threatening illnesses such as heat stroke.
Conclusion
When it comes to exercising with a heart condition, safety is paramount. It is important to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program. In addition, you must ease into any exercise form and build endurance by staying consistent. Regularly monitor your heart condition and do not ignore any signs of heart distress, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness.