Can I exercise after a heart attack?

Discover the do's and don'ts for physical fitness after a heart attack.

Maintaining good health after a heart attack is a matter of changing your diet and putting a focus on regular exercise. Exercise can strengthen your heart and may help you control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing your risk of a subsequent attack. Of course, you still need to be careful.

Gentle exercise is suitable for most people who are making a fairly straightforward recovery after a heart attack, but talk with your health care provider before exercising to ensure it is safe for you. With your health care provider's permission, follow these do's and don'ts.

1. Start slowly and gradually increase your activity levels over time. Exercise little and often to gain the greatest benefits.
2. Exercise under supervision. If exercising outside, ask someone to accompany you or stay close to home in case you experience symptoms and need assistance.
3. Embrace exercise alongside other lifestyle changes including dietary changes and smoking avoidance. Making changes to your lifestyle will reduce your risk of another heart attack.
4. Choose activities you enjoy. You will be more likely to stick with it and make exercise a habit.
5. Avoid exercises that involve lifting, pulling or pushing in the first few weeks after a heart attack. These activities will put a strain on your heart, delaying your healing.
6. Listen to your body. Immediately stop exercising and notify your health care provider if you experience warning signs such as pain in your chest, nausea, dizziness or excessive sweating.

1. Exercise in extreme temperatures. You will place added stress on your heart.
2. Expect to return to full fitness overnight. Your recovery will take time, so manage your expectations and do not push yourself too hard.
3. Lift heavy weights without first consulting your health care provider. Weight training may not be advisable if you have certain heart conditions.
4. Exercise without first warming up. Gentle stretching is an essential part of your exercise program, as it assists in relieving muscle tightness and preventing injuries.
5. Abruptly stop exercising. Slow down towards the end of your exercise session to prevent your heart rate from falling too rapidly.

Returning to exercise after a heart attack may seem daunting, but it could help you to prevent another heart attack. Work with your health care provider to develop a graded exercise program that is suitable for your current phase of recovery.