Most heart failure patients find it challenging to exercise due to shortness of breath and lack of energy, which are the two main symptoms of this condition. However, there are several exercises that can help strengthen the heart and are recommended for heart failure patients. Let’s explore the recommended exercises for heart failure patients, their benefits, and tips below.
Benefits of Exercise for Heart Failure Patients
Regular physical exercise can help maintain heart health in patients with heart failure. Several benefits obtained from exercise for heart failure patients are as follows:
Strengthens the heart and cardiovascular system.
Improves blood circulation so vital organs can receive sufficient oxygen-rich blood.
Reduces the risk of heart disease progression in the future.
Helps increase energy levels, thereby reducing fatigue and the risk of shortness of breath.
Strengthens and tones muscles.
Improves body balance and joint flexibility.
Regular exercise can minimize the risk of requiring hospitalization. This is because more frequent body movement can help muscles and lungs work better, thereby reducing the heart’s workload. As a result, heart failure patients can enjoy a better quality of life and the emotional benefits for heart health.
Recommended Types of Exercise for Heart Failure Patients
Physical exercise or activities for heart failure patients should be performed under the supervision of doctors or other medical professionals, such as in cardiac rehabilitation classes. Exercise intensity needs to be adjusted to the patient’s medical condition based on the doctor’s instructions. In general, aerobic activity is a type of exercise that is advisable for heart failure patients.
Moving most of the body can increase heart rate and breathing. Some examples of aerobic activities that you can try include walking and endurance training with light weights to strengthen muscles. These aerobic activities can also be combined with light activities, such as gardening.
Additionally, there are three other types of exercise or activities that can be performed to help improve heart strength in heart failure patients. Here are the details:
1. Cardio Training
Regular cardio training can help strengthen heart muscles and improve blood circulation throughout the body. This training can be done by going on a light walk for 10 minutes or more. There is no need to exercise for long periods at once; short cardio sessions several times a day are sufficient until appropriate targets are reached.
Besides walking, cardio can also be combined with other physical activities aimed at moving the body gently. Some examples include dancing, cycling, and bowling. In this case, choosing preferred activities can make exercise routines more enjoyable to perform.
2. Flexibility Training
Activities such as stretching, yoga, tai chi, and breathing exercises can help maintain joint movement and body balance. Flexibility training is known to help improve breathing, lower stress, and enhance quality of life. Here are the general guidelines for flexibility training:
Perform stretches before and after activities.
Hold each stretch carefully for 15–20 seconds.
Keep a stable support nearby during exercise that can be used if the patient loses balance.
Avoid bending the head forward to prevent dizziness.
3. Strength Training
Unlike the types of exercise for heart failure patients mentioned above, strength training involves repetitive muscle movements. The goal is to tone muscles, strengthen bones, and improve balance and posture. Strength training can be assisted with light weights and resistance bands. However, this training is only safe when recommended by a doctor.
Exercise Tips for Heart Failure Patients
To ensure that the exercises remain safe and beneficial for heart failure patients, here are several important tips to consider:
Consult a doctor first to determine which types of exercise are safe for the patient.
Start exercising slowly and gradually increase the intensity as the body adapts according to the doctor’s instructions.
Perform stretching and cooling down before and after exercise.
Rest when needed, but avoid lying down after exercise because it can reduce exercise tolerance.
Maintain a routine of regular light exercise.
Avoid overexertion. If the body feels tired, rest before resuming exercise.
Choose the most suitable time for light exercise.
Record all activities and training progress in a diary or application.
View physical exercise or training as an opportunity to improve the quality of life.
Exercise for heart failure patients must be supervised by medical professionals and should only be performed upon a doctor’s recommendation. To ensure safe exercise practices, consult a Cardiologist at the nearest Siloam Hospitals before undertaking any of the exercises mentioned above.
Please note that the information in this article is only for educational purposes and cannot be used as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor. Before recommending exercises suitable for each patient’s condition, doctors will conduct a thorough examination. The diagnostic steps may vary depending on the availability of healthcare facilities at each hospital.
