If you’ve experienced heart trouble or have had symptoms of heart failure, it’s CRITICAL for you to take some precautions when you exercise. In addition to getting exercise clearance from your doctor (who may want to run some tests to make sure you are a good candidate for exercise), you should exercise under the supervision of a physical therapist to maximize safety and effectiveness.
- Remember to PACE yourself and rest when needed.
- AVOID isometric exercises (like push-ups, sit-ups). Isometrics are generally associated with breath-holding and excessive straining, also known as the Valsalva Maneuver. This can instantaneously shoot up your blood pressure! So listen to your body and let it dictate your breathing – NEVER hold your breath.
- If it’s too cold, hot, or humid outdoors, it’s best to exercise indoors. Extreme temperature can affect circulation and make you tired (or short of breath) fairly quickly.
- Avoid extreme hot and cold showers, or sauna baths, especially after exercise. These extreme temperatures increase the workload on the heart.
- Steer clear of exercise in hilly areas. If you must walk in steep areas, make sure you slow down when going uphill to avoid working too hard. Monitor your heart rate closely.
- If your exercise program has been interrupted for more than a few days (illness, vacation or bad weather), make sure you ease back into the routine. Start with a reduced level of activity, and gradually increase it until you get back in the groove.
Word of Caution
Stop exercise if you experience any of the following symptoms of overload:
- Chest pain
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Unexplained weight gain or swelling (call your doctor right away)
- Pressure or pain in your chest, neck, arm, jaw or shoulder
- Anything else that concerns you
If you continue to exercise despite these warning signs, you may be causing too much stress on your heart. If your symptoms persist, call your doctor.
Your heart is critical to your long-term health. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to seek the expert supervision of a physical therapist to create or modify your exercise program. This will allow your heart to function more effectively and improve the quality of your life.