Tachycardia is classified as a heart rhythm disorder. The disorder causes a person’s heart to beat faster than normal. Resting heart rates of between 100-130 beats per minute when not exercising are a sign that a person has tachycardia. Tachycardia is a serious health problem. A person that suspects that they have tachycardia should seek medical attention immediately.
Exercise can be beneficial for some individuals that have tachycardia. The American College of Sports Medicine classifies individuals that have tachycardia as high risk. A high risk person is required to seek medical attention and receive a doctor’s clearance before performing any physical activity, as doing so may be unsafe (livestrong). This health issue can be managed and prevented in some instances by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and by reducing stress. Being overweight puts extra pressure on a person’s heart. Stress can cause this health problem.
People that have tachycardia should consult with their Doctor before commencing with an exercise program. If they are allowed to exercise, they should monitor their heart rate using a heart rate monitor while exercising at all times. If they have a tachycardia episode while exercising, they should stop exercising immediately and contact a Physician.
Exercise can be beneficial for people that have tachycardia. Cardiovascular, resistance and flexibility training are recommended in most instances. The level of intensity will be different for each person. Individuals that are starting an exercise program should start at a low level and increase the intensity slowly over time. They should not perform exercises that they do not feel comfortable doing.
References: livestrong.com, Can You Exercise With Tachycardia?, Scott, Michael, 2007, Wikipedia Tachycardia, mayoclinic.org, Tachycardia.