Abstract

Medically prescribed and supervised physical activity forms the keystone for cardiac rehabilitation. A patients potential and limitations for successful participation in an active restoration programme are determined by the degree of symptomatic recovery and physiological adaptations to a standardised, multistage exercise test. Confirmation of the effects of physical activity intervention is measured by the performance of the same exercise test under near identical conditions at periodic intervals. The prescribed physical activity regimen is usually performed minimally 3 times/wk in sessions from 30-60 min. Object is to utilise 100-200 kcal/exercise session. The demonstrated benefits of regular physical activity include reduction of the systolic blood pressure and heart rate at supine rest and while performing submaximal work, an increased level of physical work capacity, reduction in the myocardial oxygen cost at rest and during performance of submaximal exercise, reduction in body fat with a concomitant increase in muscle mass, and reduction in plasma trigylcerides. While contraindications to performing medically prescribed and supervised physical activity are usually restricted to the physically incapacitated patient, failure to achieve an exercise threshold for systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher is probably a contraindication. Although the scientific evidence warrants the prudent use of physical activity for coronary artery disease patients, the case for its long term benefits remains to be proved. Verf.-Referat