Exercise and Cardiac Rehabilitation in Women

Most of the information available about the cardiovascular benefits of exercise has been derived from studies in men. However, improvements in risk factors, functional capacity, and all-cause mortality have been demonstrated in women. Unfortunately, women are less likely than men to participate in leisure-time physical activities and, therefore, become more inactive with age. Women are also less likely than men to enroll in cardiac rehabilitation programs, despite evidence regarding the significant value of participation. Providers and programs will have to address the concerns and barriers that women, who are generally of older age, perceive as preventing their participation. It seems clear that regular, physical activity for women has the potential to improve many facets of health over their lifetime.