CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR.

Ask your doctor about your post-stroke limitations BEFORE you start an exercise program!

CARDIOVASCULAR EXERCISE

Cardiovascular exercise is very important in preventing a second stroke. Aerobic, or cardiovascular exercise, is any activity that significantly increases your heart rate for an extended period of time.

RESISTANCE TRAINING

Lifting weights, using resistance tubing or machines at a gym are all forms of resistance or strength training. You can also get strength benefits by using just your body weight in exercises such as squats, lunges and wall push ups. Intensity, duration and frequency are all factors in a successful strength training routine.

STRETCHING, FLEXIBILITY AND BALANCE

Stretching and flexibility exercises decrease the risk of injury and increase your range of motion in the joints. Imbalance in movement following stroke can cause stiffness in joints throughout the body and stretching helps make moving more comfortable.