Returning to Physical Activity

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Resuming physical activity after a period of inactivity should not be taken lightly. It must consider both the type of exercise planned and the health condition of the individual involved.

150 Minutes of Activity per Week

It is important to remember that regular exercise is recommended. The benefits are real and can be achieved with just 150 minutes of physical activity per week.

This goal can be reached through various daily exercise sessions, regardless of the activity chosen. Even a simple walk can contribute to the desired health benefits.

A Simple Activity is Enough

This recommendation can be accessible to everyone through activities such as walking, cycling, aqua fitness, swimming, or any other recreational activity.

Resuming these exercises typically does not require specific medical evaluation.

Exercise is an Integral Part of Treatment

Regular exercise is an essential component of treatment for patients who have experienced a coronary event, such as unstable angina or a heart attack.

There is no doubt that these patients, who have likely undergone coronary artery repairs with stents or bypass surgery, have been advised to adopt a healthy diet, quit smoking if necessary, and engage in regular physical activity.

Playing Hockey with Friends

What about those men and women who, after years of a sedentary lifestyle, decide to lace up their skates again to play hockey in what’s commonly known as a “garage league”?

This type of activity requires some level of precaution. Let’s explore why.

These garage leagues typically consist of small teams, often with few players, competing in the evening. The games, lasting about an hour, demand intense and sustained effort from participants.

Therefore, participants need to be in good physical shape.

Risk Factors to Consider

Many individuals leaving behind their sedentary lifestyle often carry excess weight and face health issues that predispose them to clogged arteries.

These health concerns, commonly referred to as risk factors, increase their vulnerability to developing coronary artery disease.

The key risk factors include:
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia)
• Diabetes

Other contributing risk factors are:
• Male gender
• Age
• Family history of coronary artery disease
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Obesity
• Smoking

Vigilance is Essential

Anyone wishing to resume intense physical activity should exercise particular caution, especially if a woman has two risk factors or a man has even just one.

It is highly recommended to consult a doctor to determine if any specific tests are needed before engaging in the chosen activity.

For individuals who have experienced a coronary event requiring stent placement or other interventions, it is strongly advised to consult their healthcare professional before returning to physical activity.

Key Elements to Discuss with Your Healthcare Professional

During medical consultations, several important factors may be reviewed: medical history, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

A resting electrocardiogram (ECG) and, in some cases, a treadmill stress test might also be recommended to assess heart function before resuming intense physical activity.

Suspected Angina

It’s important to remember that angina is the primary symptom of coronary artery disease.

Anyone experiencing pain in the back, chest, left or right arm, or jaw during physical exertion, which eases with rest but returns upon exertion, should discuss these symptoms with their doctor.

In Conclusion

Prevention remains the best treatment. Adopt healthy lifestyle habits:

  • stay active,
  • maintain a healthy weight,
  • prioritize a balanced diet,
  • and avoid smoking.

Returning to more intense physical activity after a period of inactivity should be approached with caution and, if necessary, under the approval of your healthcare professional.