if you have heart failure: be sure any exercise is paced and balanced with rest. avoid isometric exercises such as push-ups and sit-ups. isometric exercises involve straining muscles against other muscles or an immovable object. don't exercise outdoors when it is too cold hot or humid. high humidity may cause you to tire more quickly; extreme temperatures can interfere with circulation make breathing difficult and cause chest pain. better choices are indoor activities such as mall walking. make sure you stay hydrated. it is important to drink water even before you feel thirsty especially on hot days. but be careful not to drink too much water. follow your doctor's guidelines about how much fluid you can have in a day. extremely hot and cold showers or sauna baths should be avoided after exercise. these extreme temperatures increase the workload on the heart. steer clear of exercise in hilly areas. if you must walk in steep areas make sure you slow down when going uphill to avoid working too hard. monitor your heart rate closely. if your exercise program has been interrupted for a few days (for example due to illness vacation or bad weather) make sure you ease back into the routine. start with a reduced level of activity and gradually increase it until you are back where you started.
what are some general workout tips for people with heart failure?