High level physical activity in cardiac rehabilitation: Implications for exercise training and leisure-time pursuits.
Publication Title
Progress in cardiovascular diseases
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
12-29-2021
Keywords
missoula; montana; ihi; sph; Cardiac maladaptations; Cardiac rehabilitation; Cardiorespiratory fitness; Cardiovascular events; High-intensity interval training; Risk of exercise; Vigorous physical activity
Abstract
IMPORTANCE: Regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and increased levels of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are widely promoted as cardioprotective measures in secondary prevention interventions.
OBSERVATIONS: A low level of CRF increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) to a greater extent than merely being physically inactive. An exercise capacity(METs), generally corresponding to the bottom 20% of the fitness continuum, indicates a higher mortality group. Accordingly, a key objective in early cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is to increase the intensity of training to >3 METs, to empower patients to vacate this "high risk" group. Moreover, a "good" exercise capacity, expressed as peak METs, identifies individuals with a favorable long-term prognosis, regardless of the underlying extent of coronary disease. On the other hand, vigorous-to-high intensity physical activity, particularly when unaccustomed, and some competitive sports are associated with a greater incidence of acute cardiovascular events. Marathon and triathlon training/competition also have limited applicability and value in CR, are associated with acute cardiac events each year, and do not necessarily provide immunity to the development of or the progression of CVD. Furthermore, extreme endurance exercise regimens are associated with an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation and accelerated coronary artery calcification.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: High-intensity training offers a time-saving alternative to moderate intensity continuous training, as well as other potential advantages. Additional long-term studies assessing safety, adherence, and morbidity and mortality are required before high-intensity CR training can be more widely recommended, especially in previously sedentary patients with known or suspected CVD exercising in non-medically supervised settings.
Area of Special Interest
Cardiovascular (Heart)
Specialty/Research Institute
Cardiology
Specialty/Research Institute
Rehabilitation
