Does exercise conditioning delay progression of myocardial ischemia in coronary atherosclerotic heart disease?

The data regarding the effect of physical of physical conditioning on the progression of myocardial is chemia, although suggestive of a favorable influence, are in no way definitive. Efforts to alter the physical activity habits of our population should not supersede efforts directed to alter the major risk factors. The emphasis in the prevention of coronary atherosclerotic heart disease for the general public should be on the well established cardinal risk factors, that is, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and cigarette smoking. The National Postinfarction Rehabilitation Study, when completed, may demonstrate how physical conditioning influences the progression of myocardial ischemia. However, "moderate activity is a part of a balanced satisfying living and is the safe and sane hygienic prescription of the thoughtful physician for his patients, the high risk and the healthy alike.