Featuring Min Naruki-van Velzen, MSc, Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist, Athletic Therapist

Duration: 1 minute, 6 seconds

The four main points around exercise when recovering from heart disease can be summarized in the FITT principle: frequency, intensity, time and type.

In terms of frequency you want to be active most preferably every day of the week.

Intensity is really determined by the type of heart event that you had and what your physical capabilities are at that time. And you'll be given direction on that by the exercise specialist in the cardiac rehab program.

When it comes to time we'd like to see people physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, probably more, especially if you're trying to manage your weight. In terms of type, it really doesn't matter too much; choose what works best for you. Perhaps you like to exercise outdoors with walking, and that would be completely fine.

On the other hand, if you don't like to be outside when it's raining, indoor exercise like gym exercise, or yoga, or Pilates, that type of activity might be fine for you as well.

The best thing to do is either talk to your general practitioner, your family physician, or your cardiologist about being referred to your local cardiac rehab program.

Presenter: Mr. Min Naruki-van Velzen, Athletic Therapist, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Athletic Therapist