[Preventive cardiology: lack of exercise and physical training from the epidemiologic and experimental viewpoints]

A survey is given on epidemiological and experimental results of lack of exercise as a risk factor for coronary heart disease. The consequences of endurance training are described. It is evident that endurance sport or training during leisure time can have a greater effect than heavy muscular professional work. The selectively analysed factor "lack of exercise" may be less important as a risk factor than the protective influence of endurance training. Directions are given for carrying out a preventive program of training, with contraindications included.