The role of resistance training in patients with cardiac disease

During the past decade, research has demonstrated that resistance training is a safe and effective mode of exercise for cardiac patients who are suitable candidates for conventional exercise rehabilitation. Fears of an excessive pressor response seem unwarranted and the incidence of ischaemia is less than that during dynamic exercise such as walking and cycling. Major benefits from resistance training include improved muscular strength, increased peak exercise capacity and submaximal endurance, reduced ratings of perceived exertion during exercise and improved self-efficacy in strength-related tasks. The effects of resistance training on blood pressure and blood lipids levels are equivocal, but there may be positive effects on glucose metabolism. This form of training is likely to assume greater importance in cardiac rehabilitation in the future.