Introduction
This guide outlines a structured approach to exercise based on your cardiovascular risk assessment and current fitness level.
Risk Categories
Low Risk
- No significant cardiovascular symptoms
- ≤1 major risk factor
- Normal resting ECG
Moderate Risk
- 2+ major risk factors
- Controlled hypertension
- Well-managed diabetes
High Risk
- Known cardiovascular disease
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Recent cardiac events
Exercise Recommendations by Risk Level
Low Risk Program
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Frequency: 4-5 times per week
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Duration: 30-45 minutes per session
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Intensity: 60-75% of maximum heart rate
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Activities:
- Brisk walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Light jogging
Moderate Risk Program
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Frequency: 3-4 times per week
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Duration: 20-30 minutes per session
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Intensity: 50-65% of maximum heart rate
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Activities:
- Walking
- Stationary cycling
- Light resistance training
High Risk Program
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Frequency: 3 times per week
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Duration: 10-20 minutes per session
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Intensity: 40-55% of maximum heart rate
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Activities:
- Supervised exercise
- Light walking
- Seated exercises
Safety Guidelines
Warning Signs to Stop Exercise
- Chest pain or pressure
- Unusual shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Irregular heartbeat
Monitoring Requirements
- Track heart rate during exercise
- Use RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) scale
- Keep exercise log
- Regular blood pressure checks
Progress Tracking
Document your exercise sessions using the provided log sheet, including:
- Duration
- Type of activity
- Heart rate
- RPE score
- Any symptoms
Follow-up Schedule
- Initial review: 2 weeks
- Progress assessment: Monthly
- Risk reassessment: Every 3 months