Exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain your overall health. Some studies suggest that people who exercise regularly are less likely to develop heart disease or experience sudden cardiac events. In fact, a study published in the journal Circulation found that people who met recommendations for moderate physical activity had a 22% to 25% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease (CVD), compared to 2% to 4% less than the recommended amount. It was found that people who exercised twice as much had a 22-25% lower risk of death. The risk her decreases by 28-38%.

However, there are some precautions you should take when exercising while suffering from heart disease. Speaking to the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr. LK Jha, Vice Director and Head of Cardiology II, Asian Hospital, Faridabadshares that people who are not used to regular strenuous exercise or those with pre-existing heart conditions may experience additional stress on their heart if they indulge in strenuous physical activity, such as running on a treadmill. did. So here’s what you should keep in mind.

Also read: 6 easy exercises for heart health you can do at home

Avoid excessive exercise and keep the load low

Excessive intake can be detrimental to your health, including exercise, especially if you have heart disease. Dr. Jha cautioned against pushing beyond your body’s capabilities and advised paying attention to your body’s signals. Anyone who experiences chest pain, dizziness, or extreme fatigue during exercise should not ignore the signs and seek immediate medical attention.

Additionally, people with pre-existing heart problems should choose low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling to reduce stress on their joints and minimize the risk of injury.

Please rest if you are not feeling well

If you have recently become ill or suffered a cardiac event, do not overdo it. Exercising when you’re not feeling well can put additional stress on your cardiovascular system and impair your recovery process.

Additionally, your body may need plenty of rest to return to normal. It’s important for people with heart conditions to prioritize their health, consult a medical professional, and only resume exercise if cleared.

Warm-up session is important

A warm-up session relaxes your body and allows your coronary arteries to open, which can help prevent heart complications. If you have a heart condition, it’s important to introduce an exercise routine gradually, rather than starting all at once. Therefore, Dr. Jha recommended increasing exercise intensity gradually to allow the body to adapt effectively.

supervised exercise

Supervised exercise for people with heart disease ensures safety. Experts in this field can help provide a personalized exercise program that takes into account the specific needs and limitations of individuals with cardiovascular concerns. They have the knowledge to read and monitor vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure during exercise to ensure the intensity is kept within safe limits. In addition, supervision allows for timely response to signs of distress or discomfort, allowing prompt and appropriate intervention if necessary.

Also read: 4 important numbers to know for heart health

stay hydrated

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), staying properly hydrated helps your heart pump blood around your body. It also helps muscles work more efficiently, which supports exercise habits.

Additionally, drinking a lot of water can lead to problems such as dizziness, fatigue, swollen legs, headaches, and even life-threatening illnesses such as heat stroke, especially if you are taking medications that affect your fluid balance. Helps prevent dehydration. .

conclusion

Safety is paramount when exercising with heart disease. It is important to always consult a medical professional before starting any exercise program. Additionally, you need to get used to any exercise form and improve your endurance by being consistent. Monitor your heart condition regularly and don’t ignore signs of heart disease such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.