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Exercising after a cardiac transplant is very important for the restoration of bone mineral density, reversing sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and/or strength) and to decrease risk factors of cardiovascular disease. After a cardiac transplant, patients could be at risk for a multitude of conditions such as cancers, graft failures (due to immunosuppression therapy), hypertension, diabetes and others. In order to prevent conditions after the transplant, it is important to begin an exercise routine and to increase the blood circulation around the body. See the blog for "Cardiac Rehabilitation" for more details!

REMINDER: It is your number one priority to adhere to your cardiologist's instruction. Some patients may need to wait up to 12 weeks before beginning an exercise program while others could potentially begin immediately.

EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT - TRIPLE CHECK HIS/HER INSTRUCTION!!!

Once cleared by your cardiologist, this is a very basic guideline to follow where modifications may be needed. Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns about your exercise program! Always progress GRADUALLY and do not go above moderate intensity unless advised to do so by your exercise physiologist or healthcare provider.

FITT FOR AEROBIC

Frequency: 3 - 5 days/week

Intensity: Light to moderate, beginning with light

Time: Start with 15 - 20 minutes/day, progress to 30 - 60 minutes/day

Type: Treadmill, walking, stationary bike, dual action ergometers

FITT FOR STRENGTH

Frequency: 1 - 2 days/week, nonconsecutive

Intensity: Upper body - 40% of 1 rep max

Lower body - 50% of 1 rep max

Slowly progress to 70% of 1 rep max over weeks - months

Time: 1 - 2 sets of 10 - 15 sets of each exercise for major muscle groups

Type: Weight machines, pulley systems, elastic bands, dumbbells, etc.

FITT FOR FLEXIBILITY

Frequency: At least 2 - 3 days/week, preferably every day

Intensity: To slight discomfort

Time: Hold 10 - 30 seconds, 2 - 4 times

Type: Static, dynamic, PNF, passive

**ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing & Prescription - 10th edition**

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