As you can tell from your experience in the hospital, walking is one of the earliest activities you are allowed to resume. Walking is an excellent exercise for the heart and we encourage you to establish a regular habit of daily walking at home. If your doctor agrees, consider using this Home Walking Package as a guide for your own exercise program.

Suggested Walking Schedule

WEEK 1

Begin walking slowly outside for as long as you had while in hospital with your physiotherapist (approximately 5-10 minutes). Avoid hills and stairs if possible and always wait 1-2 hours after eating before you exercise. Try to plan your walks for cool weather (not too hot or too cold) as this will decrease the strain on your heart. In winter time, try walking in the shopping mall or local school.

WEEK 2-8

As a general guide, if you don't have shortness of breath or chest discomfort add 5 minutes to your walking time at the start of each new week. You should walk at a pace that allows you to talk to someone without being short of breath. Always try to walk with someone during this healing period. If you have walked fewer than 3 times during one week then don't increase your time until the following week. If you are experiencing any unusual signs or symptoms do not increase your routine until you talk to your doctor.

When you start for each walk, warm up for the first 5 minutes by going slower than your regular pace. When you are nearing the end of your walk cool down by slowing down.

Plan your walks before you leave, continuing to try and avoid hills.

Enjoy, Have Fun.

If you wish to do an activity aside from walking as exercise, please discuss this with your doctor or physiotherapist.

You should not feel any unusual symptoms during activity.

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