Articles
Exercise After a Heart Attack
A heart attack is a scary event. Many people are reluctant to begin any form of activity that may raise heart rate after having a heart attack. However, becoming active again is a very important part of recovery. It not only helps to restore energy levels and get back to day to day life, but it will also help to boost the confidence that is so often lost in such a traumatic event.
The first step to returning to activity, post heart attack, is to consult your cardiologist or physician. They may need to run further tests prior to beginning an exercise regimen and they may have particular recommendations for each individuals situation. Exercise can usually begin six weeks post heart attack, but this can be very individual. Cardio is usually the preferred exercise, as it strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Walking is always a great place to start. Begin walking on a flat surface for a few days before tackling any slopes or hills. It is recommended to remain indoors if it is very hot or very cold outside, perhaps walk around the shopping centre or on a treadmill at the gym. After a few weeks of walking, with a slow increase in distance and pace, it is safe to progress to bike riding. Begin riding on a flat surface with the wind behind you, or use a stationary bike. Gradually increase distance and intensity as energy levels return and fitness level increases. Patients will likely be offered an introductory fitness program at the hospital prior to discharge.
Warm ups and cool downs are particularly important for those recovering from a heart attack. Warming up allows heart rate and blood pressure to slowly increase. The coronary arteries have time to slowly expand, thus gradually increasing the supply of blood to the muscles. During exercise heart rate and blood pressure increase to levels much higher than resting rate. Stopping suddenly can lead to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure and cause dizziness and even possible arrhythmia. Cooling down is extremely important. Take time to decrease cardio speed and intensity and incorporate stretches to give heart rate and blood pressure time to re-adjust to a resting level. This is important for those taking beta blocker or ACE inhibitors, as they exert their own effects on blood pressure.
If exercise seems daunting at first, begin by doing some simple house hold chores to keep active. Start with the preparation of simple meals or washing the dishes. As energy levels increase, progress to making the bed, ironing for 5-10mins at a time and eventually some light gardening.
Sex is often avoided post heart attack and many patients are reluctant to ask their doctors about their intimacy concerns. It is safe to return to sexual activity when you are able to easily walk up two flights of stairs without losing breath or suffering any chest pain. This is usually 4-6 weeks post heart attack.
No matter what your fitness level pre heart attack, it is essential to begin some sort of exercise regimen post heart attack to improve overall health and fitness. With your cardiologist or physicians blessing, there is no need to avoid exercise in fear of another heart attack, in fact, exercise will only help to decrease that risk. Good luck!
Added to site on : Monday, 16 December 2013