Am I allowed to exercise before my heart transplantation?

Heart failure patients need to stay active. Severely restricting your physical activity is not a good idea, because it can reduce your stamina and further lower your exercise capacity. Your heart failure symptoms will likely improve if you stay as physically active as possible. Aerobic activities, such as walking, can help by exercising the heart and may allow it to get stronger. When you stay active, you may feel less tired and have fewer symptoms. It is a good idea to have a regular exercise schedule. By exercising regularly and keeping your body conditioned, you feel better and can exercise longer.

When you are exercising, it is important to pace yourself. If you can’t hold a conversation during activity, you are pushing yourself too hard. Try to do activities that involve your family or friends. Be sure to know your limits, and understand that you will likely have both good days and bad days. During your activities you should be careful not to overexert yourself. Stop exercising if you feel chest pain or burning, severe breathlessness, a racing heartbeat, or lightheadedness/ dizziness.

Although it is important to stay active, your body also needs rest. Regular periods of both rest and exercise should be scheduled into your day. Allowing extra rest during time periods of emotional stress or illness may be helpful. If you listen to your body, you know when it needs rest or activity