Best Exercises for Managing Stable Angina

For individuals with stable angina due to coronary artery disease, engaging in aerobic activities can be both safe and beneficial during periods of stability when symptoms are not frequent. Recommended exercises include walking, playing table tennis, swimming, dancing, practicing tai chi, doing yoga, and even singing. These activities help improve cardiovascular health without placing excessive strain on the heart.

Understanding Target Heart Rate During Exercise

A key factor in exercising safely with angina is monitoring your heart rate to ensure you're working within a safe and effective range. The target heart rate for moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is typically calculated as 60% to 70% of your maximum heart rate. A commonly used formula for estimating maximum heart rate is 220 minus your age in years. For example, a 40-year-old person would aim for a heart rate between 108 and 126 beats per minute (bpm) during exercise.

Why Heart Rate Monitoring Matters

Keeping your heart rate within the recommended range helps ensure that you're exercising effectively without overexerting your cardiovascular system. Exceeding this range may increase the risk of triggering angina symptoms or other cardiac events. Therefore, for a 40-year-old individual with angina, it's advisable to stay below 108 bpm during physical activity unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.

Getting Professional Guidance

To determine the most suitable exercise plan for your specific condition, it's highly recommended to undergo medical evaluations such as a stress test or Holter monitoring at a healthcare facility. These assessments allow doctors to observe how your heart responds to physical exertion and provide personalized recommendations for safe and effective exercise routines.