Atrial fibrillation (AFib) describes an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm. While physical activity offers health benefits, individuals with AFib must approach exercise thoughtfully. This article guides on exercise types to approach with caution and outlines safe physical activity recommendations.
Exercises to Avoid
Individuals with AFib should generally avoid high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This involves rapid shifts between intense bursts and short recovery, causing sudden heart rate fluctuations. Such changes may destabilize the heart’s rhythm.
Heavy weightlifting or isometric exercises, where muscles contract without movement, also require caution. Straining or holding one’s breath (Valsalva maneuver) sharply increases blood pressure and heart rate, straining the cardiovascular system. Examples include pushing heavy objects, planks, or intense static holds.
Competitive sports with sudden, unpredictable bursts of activity, like basketball, soccer, or sprinting, can also be problematic due to rapid changes in exertion.
How Certain Exercises Impact Atrial Fibrillation
Physiological responses to certain exercises significantly impact individuals with AFib. Sudden heart rate changes, common in high-intensity activities, disrupt irregular electrical signals in the atria. This makes the heart’s electrical system more prone to instability.
Activities causing sharp blood pressure rises, like heavy lifting, strain the heart and blood vessels. This elevated pressure further stresses the cardiovascular system, already managing an irregular rhythm.
Intense exercise can overstimulate the sympathetic nervous system (“fight or flight” response), potentially triggering or exacerbating arrhythmias. Uncontrolled AFib during strenuous activity increases the risk of serious events, including stroke-causing blood clots.
Recommended Exercise Approaches
Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is a beneficial approach for individuals with AFib. Brisk walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent choices. These allow consistent exertion without extreme heart rate spikes, promoting cardiovascular health. Consistency, rather than high intensity, helps maintain a stable heart rhythm.
Light strength training can also be advantageous. Use lighter weights with higher repetitions, focusing on controlled movements and proper breathing. This builds muscle endurance without significant blood pressure spikes.
Flexibility and balance exercises, like gentle yoga, tai chi, or stretching, contribute to overall well-being and can help reduce stress, a potential AFib trigger.
General Exercise Precautions
Before starting any exercise regimen, consult a physician or cardiologist. They offer personalized guidance based on your condition, medication, and health status. This helps develop an individualized plan balancing benefits with safety.
Monitor your body for adverse symptoms during physical activity. If dizziness, chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, or worsening palpitations occur, stop immediately.
Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise, as dehydration can affect heart rhythm.
Warm up before and cool down after each session to prepare for activity and aid recovery. Progress gradually, listening to your body, to prevent overexertion and complications.