Exercise's Effects on the Heart Inactivity is one of the four major risk factors for coronary artery disease. However, exercise helps improve heart health in people with many forms of heart disease and can even reverse some risk factors, such as some of the effects of smoking. Like all muscles, the heart becomes stronger and larger as a result of exercise so it can pump more blood through the body with every beat and sustain its maximum level with less strain. The resting heart rate of those who exercise is also slower because less effort is needed to pump blood. People who exercise the most often and vigorously have the lowest risk for heart disease, but any exercise is beneficial. Studies consistently find that light to moderate exercise is even beneficial in people with existing heart disease. However, anyone with coronary artery disease should seek medical advice before beginning a workout program. Some studies suggest that for the greatest heart protection, it is...
