Coronary heart disease (CHD) describes a group of cardiovascular diseases including peripheral vascular occlusive disease (PVOD), hypertension and congestive heart failure (CHF). CHD, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), is characterized by a range of conditions, from reversible myocardial injury and discomfort, or angina, to acute myocardial infarction or heart attack. Fatty plaque collecting inside the arterial walls causes the arteries to become narrow or blocked, ultimately leading to CHD. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among both men and women in the United States (Kochanek, Murphy, Xu, Tejada-Vera & Betzaida, 2014). Regular exercise positively counteracts the primary risk factors for heart disease.
Peripheral vascular occlusive disease (PVOD) indicates arterial obstruction(s) causing restricted blood flow to the lower extremities. PVOD is very painful and may lead to the development of gangrene or an eventual amputation.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is defined as blood pressure that is consistently higher than normal and is the most important risk factor for a cerebrovascular incident or stroke. High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. According to the American Heart Association, low-intensity aerobic exercise can lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) refers to the inability of the heart to provide adequate cardiac output to meet the oxygen requirements of the body. Inadequate oxygen intake can result in shortness of breath, rapid pulse rate, low tolerance to exercise and occasional mental confusion. Causes of the disease include a dysfunction of the left ventricle, heart valve disease and infectious myocarditis.
Exercise benefits:
- Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.
- Reduces cardiovascular disease progression.
- Lowers risk of increased blood pressure over time.
The benefits of physical activity are greater in people with hypertension compared to those with normal blood pressure. Moderate intensity exercise for approximately 90 minutes per week will lower the risk of heart disease. Ninety minutes of exercise is equivalent to participating in just two SilverSneakers classes, such as Classic, Circuit or Splash.
Exercise guidelines:
- Low-to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and strength training.
- Exercise on most, if not all, days of the week.
A strong heart can pump more blood with less effort. As a result, the force on the arteries decreases, lowering blood pressure.
SilverSneakers class recommendations:
- Classic and Circuit (if tolerated) are beneficial classes for individuals with hypertension.
- SilverSneakers Yoga and EnerChi can assist in lowering blood pressure by decreasing stress levels.
Instructor tips for participants with coronary heart diseases:
- Remind participants to hydrate by sipping water and drinking slowly.
- Encourage even and continuous breathing to avoid “breath-holding” and straining during exercise.
- Avoid exercises that might produce an increase in blood pressure, such as isometrics and sustained overhead arm work.
- Create a safe environment with clean air and comfortable temperatures.
- Follow all physician’s directives.
Cueing for Safety! Cueing a minimum of three times for breathing, posture, hydration and perceived exertion provides a way to safely manage most chronic conditions.