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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Can I still exercise if I have atrial fibrillation?

    Related Topics
    Atrial Fibrillation Cardiology & Vascular Health
    Can I still safely engage in cardiovascular activities or is it not recommended with my condition?
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  • 71

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    Dr Bennett Franjic

    Cardiologist (Heart Specialist)

    Dr Bennett Franjic is a General Cardiologist with expertise in Echocardiography. He has special interest in Cardiomyopathy, Valvular Disease, Pulmonary Hypertension and Stress Echocardiography. Dr … View Profile

    In atrial fibrillation, there is a tendency for the heart rate to be faster than normal, sometimes much faster. Usually, medication is required to slow down the heart rate. Therefore, the heart rate is likely to be excessively fast during exercise, unless you are on rate-control medication.
    Also, you may have an underlying heart condition, such as Cardiomyopathy or Ischaemic Heart Disease, which could require specific treatment, to make exercise safer.
    It is important to be treated properly, so as you can still exercise as much as possible. The options are Beta-blockers, Calcium-blockers and Digoxin. The other option is to restore Sinus Rhythm. It may be appropriate to perform a Holter monitor or an Exercise test, to check on the heart rate during everyday activity or strenuous exercise.

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    John Stevens

    Exercise Physiologist

    John is an exercise physiologist and owner of Kinetic Medicine, an Exercise Physiology practice with 5 clinics on the NSW Mid North Coast. John is … View Profile

    Exercise for patients with chronic and complex conditions is safest under the care and guidance of an appropriate team of health professionals. Partnering with your local accredited exercise physiologist (AEP) can ensure that the best possible care is received for the development of an appropriate program. Your AEP can thenliaise with your treating doctors to ensure the reporting of any adverse effects.

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