Exercise with Heart Disease
Moving safely with heart disease
Exercise is the most potent medicine for heart disease — but intensity needs to be calibrated. Cardiac rehab principles apply even years after diagnosis.
Match the exercise to the benefit
Connect each exercise type to its cardiovascular benefit.
Cardiac rehab — the underused medicine
Formal cardiac rehab after a heart event reduces 5-year mortality by 25-35% (similar effect size to statins). Yet only 25-30% of eligible patients enrol. If you've had an MI, stent, or bypass and weren't offered cardiac rehab — ask. The first 12 weeks of supervised exercise + education is the highest-yield window for slowing CV aging.
Find your safe zone
Heart-rate zones for someone with established CHD. Always confirm with cardiologist before HIIT.
Warning signs to stop
Tap each — these mean stop the session and call your cardiologist.
Tap each tile to reveal the detail.
Key Takeaway
Start with Zone 2 (brisk walking) and light resistance. Build gradually with medical clearance. Even 20 minutes daily transforms cardiac outcomes.