The best exercise for heart failure includes a combination of aerobic activity and resistance training.
It is important to note that any exercise program should be discussed with and approved by your physician or healthcare provider. They can help you develop a safe and effective plan tailored to your specific needs and condition.
Types of Exercise Recommended for Heart Failure
Ms. Eriksen recommends the following types of exercise for people with heart failure:
- Aerobic Activity: This involves moving most of your body, which increases your heart and breathing rate slightly.
- Examples: Moving to music, walking around, swimming, or cycling.
- Resistance Training: This involves using light weights to build muscle strength.
- Examples: Lifting dumbbells, using resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises.
Why These Exercises Are Beneficial
- Aerobic exercise helps improve cardiovascular health and endurance, making it easier for your heart to pump blood.
- Resistance training builds muscle strength, which can reduce the strain on your heart during daily activities.
