General al guidelines for the prescription of exercise in patients with cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

This his is a review about the general rules for prescription of physical activity in patients with cardiovascular diseases. The accepted benefits of physical activity are emphasized and a brief description is made concerning the functional capacity of the individual by means of the effort test; also the equipments and protocols used with that aim are described. The classification of individuals and of their risk in physical activities is included, according to recommendations of the American Heart Association and the New York Heart Association. Finally, physical activities are described, with emphasis on intensity, duration, frequency and recommended type of exercise. Prescription of exercise for patients with the most prevalent cardiovascular diseases in Colombia is also included.