A Walking Program- Walking is one of the most important things you can do to help your health when you have heart failure.
Tips for walking
- It is recommended that you walk for 20-30 minutes five days a week.
- Start with 5-10 minutes every day at a moderate pace and gradually increase the time and speed as you gain strength.
- You should be able to talk while walking.
- If you are too short of breath, stop for 1-3 minutes, and start walking again at a slower pace.
- If your legs become weak and fatigued while walking, take a break for 1-3 minutes and then resume walking at a slower pace for a shorter period of time.
- Walk at the time of day when you have the most energy.
- Take it easy when going up hills. Make sure you don't get too tired by adjusting your pace. Keep in mind that the time and distance out and return will be the same
- Plan your walks so that you are not too fatigued to return.
- When you engage in moderate-to-vigorous activity and exercise, you should expect to have a faster-than-normal heart rate, sweat, and feel short of breath (but not fatigued).
- Walking on a regular basis is essential.
- If you're not sure how quickly you should walk, consult your doctor or nurse.
- If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit with more than 80% humidity, don't go outside. When the weather is poor, shopping malls are a nice place to go for a walk.
Reference: Heart Failure - Exercise. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17075-heart-failure-exercise/living-with