Topic Overview
If you have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), here are some exercise tips to follow during
your cardiac rehab program.
- Choose continuous rhythmic activities such as
walking, cycling, or water exercises.
- Always warm up and cool
down.
- Avoid extreme environmental conditions. If it is too hot or
cold, exercise inside only.
- Always wear loose, comfortable clothes
and shoes that fit properly.
- Avoid contact sports, which may
dislodge the pacemaker or ICD.
- Do not hold your breath for any
reason, especially when you strain.
- STOP
exercising if you feel any:
- Pressure or pain in your chest, neck, arm,
jaw, or shoulder.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or
nausea.
- Unusual shortness of breath.
- Unusual
tiredness.
- Heartbeat that feels unusual for you: too fast, too
slow, or skipping a beat.
- Other symptoms that cause you
concern.
- Shock from the ICD.
If you have an ICD, be sure you and your doctor have a plan for what to do if you get a shock. Talk to your doctor if you need to make a plan. For more information, see the topic Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD).