Module 4 Pull Down Navigation - Select a Page to View ------------------- Introduction Taking Charge of Heart Failure Following Your Treatment Plan Barriers to Following Your Treatment Plan Overcoming Barriers to Treatment Tips for Taking All of Your Medicines as Prescribed Tips for Exercising Regularly Tips for Following Your Diet Other Tips for Following Your Treatment Plan Managing Your Symptoms Urgent Symptoms: When to Call Your Doctor of Nurse Early Symptoms of Heart Failure Tracking Your Symptoms Monitor Your Weight and Body Swelling Daily Download a Weight Chart in PDF Format Treat Weight Gain and Swelling Right Away Prevent Fatigue From Interfering with Your Life Questions to Ask Your Doctor or Nurse Other Questions and Answers About Self-Care Learn More About Heart Failure

Tips for Exercising Regularly

Many people with heart failure are not as physically active as they once were, because they feel too tired or short of breath. Others were never very active in their daily lives. Although physical activity can be hard for people with heart failure, it is very beneficial and worth the effort. You may find the following tips helpful:

First, talk to your doctor or nurse before starting an exercise program. Then,

• Start very slowly and steadily increase your activity level.
  
  
• Build a routine for your activity schedule. For example, you may want to walk every evening before dinner.
  
  
• Think of your activity or exercise as a special time to do something good for yourself. Schedule it several times a week. Stick to it just as you would an important date.
  
  
• Walk, swim, or bicycle with a family member or friend to make it more fun.

See Module 5: Exercise and Activity for more tips and information. (Planned release date: February 2003)