The place of exercise in the patient with chronic stable angina

Exercise is an often overlooked but highly valuable non pharmacological treatment for patients with chronic stable angina. Regular exercise is associated with several cardioprotective effects, including improving endothelial function and reducing systemic inflammation. In addition, regular exercise leads to better control of major coronary risk factors. On a symptomatic level, exercise training reduces myocardial ischemia and the frequency of anginal attacks while also improving functional capacity and long-term outcomes. Patients with angina pectoris should be encouraged to engage in regular physical activity as part of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease. Heart Metab. 2008;38:34–37.