Discharged with heart failure (Aerobic exercises)
Suggested modality
  • Selected population only
  • Supervision by an expert team needed (see text)
NYHA I-III (Aerobic exercises)
Suggested modality
  • Walk
  • Treadmill
  • Ergocycle
  • Swimming
Intensity
Continuous training:
   Moderate intensity:
  • RPE scale 3-5, or
  • 65%-85% HRmax, or
  • 50%-75% peak VO2
Moderate intensity aerobic interval might be incorporated in selected patients
  • Intervals of 15-30 minutes with an RPE scale of 3-5
  • Rest intervals of 15-30 minutes
Frequency
  • Starting with 2-3 days per week
  • Goal: 5 days per week
Duration
  • Starting with 10-15 minutes
  • Goal: 30 minutes
NYHA I-III (Isometric/resistance exercises)
Intensity
10-20 repetitions of 5- to 10-pound free weights
Frequency
2-3 days per week
NYHA IV (Aerobic exercises)
Suggested modality
  • Selected population only
  • Supervision by an expert team needed (see text)
Flexibility exercises are recommended for all scenarios

HRmax, maximal heart rate; NYHA, New York Heart Association; RPE, rating perceived exertion; VO2, peak oxygen uptake.