A very common remedy to improve heart health is to exercise regularly. But what kind of exercise is best for the heart and how much exercise is too much? There are countless myths about the effect of exercise on the heart, although some seem rational, while many are untrue. One such myth is that exercise should be avoided after a heart attack.
It may be advisable to avoid exercise for the first few weeks after a heart attack. But research suggests that controlled exercise helps to improve outcomes. It is important to note that regular routine after a heart attack should be started to curtail the other heart problems. Although each person recovers at a different pace, you should follow certain guidelines to start with.
Regime to be followed after a heart attack
- Consult your doctor before you start the exercise. Your doctor will suggest exercise based on your heart problems, condition, and the workings of your heart.
- The best is to start slow. Once you get used to walking regularly, you can increase your speed gradually over time. If you feel shortness of breath, it is better to slow down the pace of walking.
- If the patient takes a walk outside the house, someone should accompany him/her as a precaution, or the patient should not go far off.
- Drink a glass of water to prevent dehydration before starting the walk.
- The patient should choose an exercise or activity that he enjoys doing, such as walking, cycling, or aerobics.
- The doctor's advice should be taken into account before lifting heavyweights.
- Exercise should be done while practicing required restrictions so as to reap complete benefits. Six days of exercise in a week is advisable.
- It is important to make it into a habit to exercise daily at the same time.
- If there are symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort, restlessness then one should stop exercising and inform the doctor.
- There are many changes after a heart attack that affect the tolerance level of exercise.