Enjoying Life While Managing Heart Failure

CHAPTERS

Get Moving

Physical activity is important even if you have heart failure. Ask your health care team if an organized cardiac rehabilitation program would be right for you.

Physical activity and exercise

Physical activity is important even if you have heart failure. Being active every day, with the goal of 150 minutes a week can help you to:

  • Maintain or get to a healthy weight
  • Increase energy
  • Improve mood
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Maintain a health blood pressure
  • Improve circulation

Ask your health care team if an organized cardiac rehabilitation program would be right for you.

Set a goal and get moving

Setting goals and keping track of your progress will help you to reach your exercise goals and keep you motivated.” Dowload the sheet for to help you stay on track.

Exercise Goal Tracker Worksheet
Heart failure goal worksheet, with activities and days of week checklist

Exercise Tips

  • Work up to 30 minutes of moving most days
  • Always “warm-up” 5 minutes, complete your exercise activity, then “cool-down” 5 minutes
  • You can break up the exercise into 10 minute periods
  • Start slowly and build up to longer activity as you get stronger
  • Wear a pedometer or smart device to track you steps
  • Wear supportive shoes and comfortable clothing

Click on the link below to discover more helpful ideas to get you moving.

Download More Tips

Exercise Safety Tips

While it is important to exercise, be aware of some safety precautions while working out:

  • It is normal for heart rate to increase with exercise
  • Ask someone to join you, or join a group
  • Carry a phone, let someone know where you are
  • Be aware of the weather and air pollution (too hot, too cold, sensitive air rating)
  • Wait 1 hour after meals to exercise
  • If you become tired or short of breath, stop and rest

Guidelines for Daily Activities

Simple things you can do to make activities easier:

  • Plan ahead so you can pace yourself.
  • Consider one major activity each day (such as vacuum one day and do laundry another day)
  • Do things that take more energy when you feel best
  • Rest before and after activity
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Interactive Guide

Enjoying Life While Managing Heart Failure

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