While some believe those with heart ailments should rest easy, studies have shown that moderate exercises for people with enlarged hearts can produce health benefits.
Aerobics Reduces the Enlarged Heart
A study at the University of Alberta indicates that aerobics workout can help the blood move more effectively around the body. The net effect is the heart assumes a smaller and firmer shape.
Because the enlarged heart is reduced in size, the organ functions more effectively. It’s able to pump blood into vital organs more proficiently.
This study was included in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 14 trials were conducted with over 800 patients. Based on the study, patients who performed aerobics 3 to 4 times a week showed improvement.
The analysis showed that exercises for people with enlarged hearts trimmed the heart’s shape. The trials were conducted over an extended period. The benefits however, can be derived only if exercise is done regularly.
The study also showed that only aerobics had to be performed. Lifting weights did not register any improvement in heart conditions. Neither did it reduce the heart size.
Moderate Exercise is Effective
A similar conclusion was reached in a study at the Washington University School of Medicine at St. Louis. Basically what the study showed was that moderate and regular workout can lower blood pressure. It has also been shown to reduce the heart’s wall. In addition, the enlarged mass will also be reduced.
Exercises for people with enlarged hearts also lessens the risk of contracting diabetes. The study also shows that moderate yet regular exercise helps keep blood pressure steady. This can be more effective if medication is taken regularly.
The positive effect of working out on the heart was published in the American Journal of Physiology: Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology.
How the Trials Were Conducted
The researchers picked several elderly men and women as test subjects. One group was given medication for high blood for months. The ones in the other group went through a 60 day exercise program. These included brisk walking, jogging and cycling.
They conducted the exercises three times a week. The results showed those who exercised had their heart walls reduced more than those who didn’t. It is for this reason that exercises for people with enlarged hearts is recommended.
Consult Your Doctor
Workouts should be done three times a week. The routines can consist of cycling, jogging or walking. You can start with as little as 15 minutes of workout. Eventually work your way up to 45 to 60 minutes.
It’s best if you talk with your doctor first. He or she will be able to recommend what routines are best suited for you. Don’t forget to take your medication too. Working out supplements and doesn’t replace your medicine. Just take your time and be patient with the progran.
The advantages will be evident if you work out regularly. For exercises for people with enlarged hearts to be effective, consistency is the key. Over time, you’ll reap the benefits.
