Physical Activity Enhancement

Abstract

The principles of the physical activity program are that the patient should be able easily to incorporate it into daily routine and that it should not require any special fitness or excessively strenuous effort. The aim is to carry out the activity at an intensity which will enable the patient to reach a pulse rate which is 60% of maximal rate, according to age and sex. This level of activity is to be maintained for 20 min continuously, four to six times per week. A wide variety of suggested activities are mentioned in this chapter. However, it is important to stress that the type of activity chosen is flexible, e.g., walking, swimming, a series of suggested exercises, participation in television or community exercise programs, or any other type of activity such as housework or gardening, provided the target pulse rate is achieved for the specified time.