Exercise Guidelines for People with Aortic Disease
The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health not only supports awareness and research into aortic disease but also provides guidance for people with aortic disease who want to exercise safely.
Dr. Siddharth Prakash (University of Texas) and Ellen Hotstetler (Chief Science Officer at the John Ritter Foundation) developed the following exercise recommendations:
The Role of Exercise
– Exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle and can help lower blood pressure.
– It should be included in the treatment plan for all patients with aortic disease.
– Before starting an exercise routine, ensure your blood pressure is well-controlled.
Safe and Recommended Activities
The following moderate aerobic exercises are generally safe:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Running
- Yoga
- Pilates
Lifting light weights is also acceptable, but it’s important to stop before reaching the point of strain.
Exercise Precautions
- Heart rate limit: Stay below (220 – your age) × 80% to maintain moderate intensity.
- Avoid straining your chest or abdomen (Valsalva maneuver) when lifting weights.
- Isometric exercises (e.g., planking, wall sits) may not be safe after recent aortic surgery or acute aortic dissection. Speak with your doctor if you’re unsure.
- Contact sports should be avoided.
Additional Considerations
– If you’re considering more intensive aerobic exercise, consult your doctor. A treadmill stress test may be recommended.
– Sexual activity is safe for individuals with aortic disease.
More Information
For a complete set of exercise guidelines, visit the John Ritter Foundation’s webpage:
Exercise Guidelines – John Ritter Foundation
These are general guidelines intended for educational purposes only and will not be appropriate for every person with aortic disease. The information provided here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your medical team or a qualified health provider.