Exercise
Did you know that being physically active can help you be happier, sleep better, improve your skin, be more creative and that’s just a few of the benefits of exercise.
You may be wondering if living with CHD means you can or can’t exercise and if you can exercise what exercise is good for you.
What exercise should I be doing with congenital heart disease?
The short answer is the heart is a muscle and should be exercised, it helps lower blood pressure, has mental health benefits and other benefits such as those mentioned above.
It doesn’t have to be going out to get a membership at a gym, this is one option. Other options are walking, running, jogging, swimming, cycling.
Daily Activity
There is some more specific advice for people with problems with the Aorta and some valves too. If you are unsure if this applies to you, just ask someone in your medical team, e.g., your clinical nurse specialist who will be able to advise you. You may be advised to avoid Isometric exercises e.g., powerlifting weights and where you have to really push yourself, hold your breath and where you may go a bit red. Change up the training to focus on lower weight and more reps, throw in some cardiovascular training and exercise using your own body weight.
If you are unsure always ask.
Links
Explore Youth at Heart
Youth at Heart are a charity committed to young people aged 13-24, and their families, who are living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) in South West England and South Wales.
We empower, inform and support them to live their best life.
For young people
We are committed to supporting you as you start your Transition Journey aged 13 and leading up to your Transfer from Paediatrics to Adult Services and beyond, until your 25th birthday.
For the whole family
Youth at Heart recognise that congenital heart disease affects the whole family, which is why our Youth Workers are there for families too.
For professionals
Youth at Heart is a charity independent from the NHS that works in partnership with health professionals across the South Wales & South West Congenital Heart Disease Network.
Get involved
Youth at Heart rely on funds being raised through donations, grants, events and activities and for people to get involved to help us carry on our important work.