Heart Failure and Exercise

[Alibaloo]

I am 85 years old and new here, I have recently been diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. I also have high blood pressure controlled by medication. I am thinking of joining a cardio exercise program. Is this likely to be of benefit, has anyone any experience of this? I am otherwise pretty fit.

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi there, usually any exercise is good for you and your heart, have a word with your consultant or GP and seek their opinion

Good luck Mark

[PamBG]

Hi Ailbaloo

I have also recently been diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. We are a “minority” in the population of heart failure patients. As skid112 said, exercise is usually good for us, but always best to check with the doctor first. My cardiologist just shrugged and said, “Do whatever you want,” when I asked about exercise.

There is a great group on Facebook that is solely dedicated to heart failure patients (although we are still in the minority) called Pumping Marvellous.

All the best in your exercise programme.

[Alibaloo in reply to PamBG]

Hi PamBG

Thanks for your reply. My cardiologist actually suggested a cardio rehab course. He said that there's nothing at the moment that will cure the condition which he described as a stiffening of the heart muscle.

Thanks so much for the information.

[PamBG in reply to Alibaloo]

That’s my understanding too. If you have been offered rehab, I’d take it. I expect they will help you find a way to excercise that is optimal for you.

[Alibaloo in reply to PamBG]

Thanks PamBG. I have had a look at Pumping Marvelous Facebook site but can see no way of joining group.

[PamBG in reply to Alibaloo]

If you’re on a phone, there is a little downward arrow by the title of the group. Press that and you will get the ability to ask to join the group.

If you’re on a computer, underneath the title of the group there should be something that says “join group.”

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

If you’ve been medically referred to Cardiac rehab class, then you must be OK to start. I’d go and keep/get your fitness up! Our instructors are very knowledgeable and will answer any worries you have at first meeting. I love it! Done me a power of rehab good!