Coronary heart disease--the benefits of exercise.

Background: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in developed nations, and there is a clear link between cardiovascular disease and physical inactivity.

Objective: This article describes the benefits of exercise for cardiac patients, details how exercise is prescribed in this group, and considers safety and contraindications to exercise in this group.

Discussion: The benefits of exercise, both aerobic and resistance training, in patients with coronary heart disease are well documented. Both modalities are important components of cardiac rehabilitation and can contribute to secondary prevention of heart disease with corresponding improvements in patient survival.