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Heart Health after Heart Failure?
Heart Health after Heart Failure?
Cardiovascular health is important for everyone even if you have had a Heart Attack or have Coronary Artery Disease
For people with Heart Failure or reduced ejection fraction, exercise is safe and beneficial
Studies show that supervised exercise programs, like cardiac rehabilitation, reduce hospital readmissions and support recovery after heart procedures
What is Cardio?
What is Cardio?
Cardiovascular exercise "Cardio" means activities that get the heart pumping, like walking, cycling, swimming, or using a treadmill. These exercises help the heart and blood vessels work better, improve energy levels, and make everyday activities easier
How does Cardio Help Me?
How does Cardio Help Me?
Strengthens your heart so it pumps blood more efficiently
Improves circulation to keep blood vessels healthy
Boosts body's ability to use oxygen (VO₂ max), reduces fatigue
Supports recovery for your heart and lowers risk of future problems
Improves quality of life with more energy, better mood, and improved sleep
💡 Remember: Every step counts towards your heart health
5 Safe Steps to Get Started
5 Safe Steps to Get Started
Talk to your doctor first – Always check before starting or changing your routine
Start slow – Even 5–10 minutes of walking can help
Go at your own pace – You should be able to talk while exercising (“the talk test”)
Watch for warning signs – Stop and call for help if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or unusual shortness of breath
Be consistent – Small steps, done regularly, lead to big improvements over time
💡 Remember: Stay Active, Feel Better, and Live Longer! Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do
References
Heidenreich PA, et al. 2022 AHA/ACC/HFSA Guideline for the Management of Heart Failure: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2022;79(17):e263-e421
Lala A, et al. The Continuum of Prevention and Heart Failure in Cardiovascular Medicine: A Joint Scientific Statement From the Heart Failure Society of America and the American Society for Preventive Cardiology. Journal of Cardiac Failure. 2025;:S1071-9164(25)00327-6
Fletcher GF, et al. Exercise Standards for Testing and Training: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2013;128(8):873-934
Thomas RJ. Cardiac Rehabilitation - Challenges, Advances, and the Road Ahead. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2024;390(9):830-841
Tucker WJ, et al. Exercise for Primary and Secondary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: JACC Focus Seminar 1/4. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2022;80(11):1091-1106
Keteyian SJ, Michaels A. Heart Failure in Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Review and Practical Considerations. Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention. 2022;42(5):296-303
Redfield MM, Borlaug BA. Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Review. JAMA. 2023;329(10):827-838
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