If you have heart failure, you may wonder if physical activity is good for you. You may worry that putting more strain on your heart could make your heart worse. But the heart is a muscle. And like other muscles, it gets stronger with use.
Regular and moderate physical activity is helpful. This includes walking, swimming, dancing, or biking. This type of activity can:
-
Improve heart failure symptoms
-
Reduce stress and improve your mood
-
Increase your energy levels
-
Lower blood pressure
-
Improve circulation
-
Help you lose weight
-
Improve quality of life
These are all important factors in staying healthy. They are even more important when you have heart failure.
Being physically active with this condition can be hard. You may have to take some safety measures. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting a physical activity program. You may not be used to physical activity. And you may be nervous about it. Your provider can help you create a plan that fits your needs. Ask your provider if a cardiac rehab program is right for you.
Date Last Reviewed: 07/01/2023
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Find the right provider to meet your needs
From primary care to specialty services and more.
Find a Doctor
Call for an Appointment
Offering personalized care at more than 20 clinics across three cities and two states.
Call NowRelated Articles
The Cardiologist
A cardiologist is a healthcare provider who has had extra training to treat problems of the heart and blood vessels. These include heart attack and heart failure.
Heart Valve Problems: Mitral Valve Stenosis
Mitral stenosis causes the mitral valve to stiffen and not open right. Learn about what it is, causes, and treatments.
Understanding Infective Endocarditis
Infective endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart (endocardium) or the valves of the heart. The infection is most often from some type of bacteria.
Understanding Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever is a disease that affects the joints, heart, and central nervous system. It causes inflammation in the body. It is most common in children ages 5 to 15.