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.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
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.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
Warning signs to stop
Tap each — these mean stop the session and call your cardiologist.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
Key Takeaway
Start with Zone 2 (brisk walking) and light resistance. Build gradually with medical clearance. Even 20 minutes daily transforms cardiac outcomes.