Basically, there are two types of exercise. They’re called isotonic and isometric. In fact, all activities have some isotonic and some isometric parts, but most fall mainly in one or the other category.
Isotonic exercise
This type of exercise is also called dynamic or cardiovascular exercise, and it describes the kind of activities where you move the joints and muscles in your arms or legs. This is usually the best kind of exercise for people with a heart condition, but you need to check with your specialist before you do it for the first time.
Isotonic exercise includes
- leisurely walking
- swimming
- cycling
- walking fast
- dancing
- skipping
Some heart conditions mean that you might not be able to do very high-intensity isotonic activities like basketball, triathlon, competitive level swimming, cycling or running, so make sure you check with your specialist.
Isometric exercise
This type of exercise is also called static, weight or resistance exercise. It doesn’t involve very much joint movement as it is mostly muscle work. Often people with heart conditions need to avoid some of these exercises because they put a strain on your heart and blood vessels. Check with your specialist before you join a gym or start doing any of these.
Isometric exercise includes
- weight-lifting
- athletic throwing events
- some gym equipment
- rock-climbing
- boxing, wrestling
- martial arts
Isometric activities in everyday life
As a general guide, heavy weight-lifting or an activity that uses the amount of effort required to say, push a car or shovel snow is best avoided. Take care if you join a gym – make sure you know what is right for your heart condition.
As a general guide, heavy weight-lifting or an activity that uses the amount of effort required to say, push a car or shovel snow is best avoided. Take care if you join a gym – make sure you know what is right for your heart condition.
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