Along with managing lots of other lifestyle factors, exercise should form a part of your ongoing treatment when you leave hospital. Most people will hopefully begin a cardiac rehabilitation program before or soon after leaving hospital.

It is important to talk to your doctor or cardiac rehabilitation team about when you can start different activities again and how to pace your program.

If you have a heart condition it is always important to consult your Cardiologist or General Practitioner before undertaking a new physical activity routine. The important thing to remember is that any physical activity is generally better than none and in most circumstances it is more beneficial to remain physically active than not.

If you have had medical advice regarding your capacity to be active that should provide a good guide about what you can be working toward. You may need some specialist advice to accommodate your individual requirements and your GP or cardiologist may advise you to see an Exercise Physiologist or a Physiotherapist.

The Heart Foundation of Australia (www.heartfoundation.org.au) website provides information on the benefits and general guidelines of physical activity for your heart and overall health.