Weight training good for heart patients

Like aerobic exercise, weight lifting can also provide multiple benefits for patients of heart disease. Although any form of exercise is good for health, weight training is particularly beneficial for people with heart disease. Not only does weight lifting enhance the benefits of aerobic fitness, it also provides increased functional capacity and independence. Also known as resistance training, it helps people better perform tasks of daily living. A scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) discusses the impact resistance training has on the structure and function of the heart and how it modifies known risk factors for heart disease. For doctors, the report shows how to evaluate potential candidates for resistance training and details initial training recommendations. The report indicated ways to evaluate potential candidates for resistance training. The recommendations and tips for patients starting weight training include that one should perform exercises in a rhythmical manner at a moderate to slow speed. One should also exhale during the exertion phase of weight lifting and inhale during the relaxation phase to avoid breath-holding and straining. To get adequate rest, one should try to alternate between upper and lower body weight training. The initial load should be such that allow healthy sedentary adults to perform 8 to 12 repetitions per set. Resistance training benefits patients with heart disease and can be safely performed if the guidelines by AHA are followed.

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