Being more active is a key part of heart attack prevention. It helps your heart muscle and the rest of your body get stronger. It also helps control other heart risks.
For lasting results, exercise needs to be a lifelong commitment.
Getting started
-
Join a cardiac rehab program. This is one of the easiest ways to start exercising. When your healthcare provider says it’s OK, you can start exercising on your own at home or at a gym. Slowly work toward the goal of exercising at least 150 minutes a week.
-
Know that a managed plan of exercise will reduce your risk for another heart attack.
-
Find activities you enjoy, from walking with a friend to playing tennis. If you do what you like, you’ll not only enjoy yourself, but you’ll also be more likely to stick with it.
Cardiac rehabilitation
In cardiac rehab, a team of providers creates an exercise plan for you and guides you through it. At first, the goal is to regain basic endurance and strength. You’ll start with something simple, such as walking. Then you’ll be given exercises to help you further increase strength and endurance, as well as flexibility. The skills you learn in cardiac rehab can benefit you for the rest of your life.
Find a cardiac specialist
Because every beat matters, our cardiac doctors are dedicated to providing care like no other can.
Related Articles
Living with Heart Failure: Goals for Management
Heart failure is a long-term condition that you need to manage over time. It’s important that you manage it as your healthcare provider tells you.
Heart Failure: Dealing With Sleep Problems
Many people with heart failure have sleep apnea. This is a condition that causes snoring and short periods of not breathing.
Questions for Your Health Care Team
Here are some important questions to ask your health care providers after your heart attack.
Lifestyle Management After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
After percutaneous coronary intervention, or angioplasty, making lifestyle changes is an important part of your recovery.
