Exercise After Heart Attack

Getting back on an exercise program after a heart attack will help strengthen the heart and improve overall fitness.

It's important for a heart attack patient to take part in some kind of aerobic activity. Moderate exercise four to six days a week, for 30 minutes at a time, will make the heart strong and keep off unwanted pounds.

"I recommend walking to most of my patients," says Dr. Antoine G. Younis, a Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital cardiologist. "Taking a few hours out of the week to exercise will help a heart attack patient build self-esteem and will help him improve his or her quality of life."

For those that are able, swimming, bike riding, running, and working out on a treadmill, stationary bike, or rowing machine are other good examples of aerobic activity.

Teaching heart patients how to manage their heart condition and prevent recurring heart attacks and coronary artery disease is a critical part of the rehabilitation process.

"In addition to exercise, patients should learn effective stress management and proper nutrition as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle," adds Dr. Younis.

Remember it's important to check with your physician before beginning any exercise program.

- From Texas Heart Institute

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu
URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/01_15_00-exercise.html