Cardiac ischemia, also referred to as myocardial ischemia, occurs when the oxygen supply in your heart is reduced due to a partial or complete blockage of an artery that pumps blood to your heart. This causes your heart to become weak and damaged and can lead to an irregular heart beat and even a heart attack. Weight training is part of a well-balanced fitness program. However, for those with cardiac ischemia, it may not be safe.
Considerations
Weight lifting has many health benefits for people of all ages, especially the elderly, states the Cleavland Clinic. Because weight lifting increases lean muscle mass, it raises your body's metabolic rate. A higher metabolism burns more fat, which helps keeps your heart healthy and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. However, no research has been conducted to confirm that weight lifting is beneficial for those with this cardiac ischemia.
Suggestions
A healthy lifestyle is important in the prevention and treatment of all cardiac problems, but a doctor's supervision is necessary. Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, biking, and swimming are examples of exercise that help to strengthen your heart and reduce two risk factors associated with cardiac ischemia: obesity and physical inactivity. If your doctor permits you to begin a strength training routine, start slowly with lighter weights and work up as your strength builds. Do not force your body to lift more weight then it can handle, because this leads to a spike in blood pressure that is extremely unhealthy for those with high-risk heart conditions such as cardiac ischemia.
Tests
Several tests can determine if you suffer from cardiac ischemia and need further medical attention. An ECG, or electrocardiogram, is a common test that detects abnormalities by recording electrical activity of your heart. Or your doctor may ask you to wear a Holter monitor for several days to measure your heart's rhythm and record any abnormal beats. Stress tests are another common way to diagnose cardiac ischemia. For this test, a doctor has you walk on a treadmill while monitoring your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure.
Tips
If weight lifting does not pose a threat to your heart condition, follow your doctor's directions and these tips from Medical News Today: Never hold your breath while lifting weights. Instead, take steady even breaths, and stop immediately if you feel dizzy or faint. Work out no more than two days a week; it's important not to overwork a weak heart. Finally, switch back and forth between upper and lower body workouts.
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