Children and adolescents with congenital heart disease should be advised to participate daily in 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, with specific counselling for certain lesions.
This report provides expert recommendations supporting daily participation in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for children and adolescents with congenital heart disease.
All children have a natural need to move, play, and perform activities. Physical activity is necessary for optimal physical, emotional, and psychosocial development for healthy children as well as children with congenital heart disease (CHD). In this paper we provide recommendations for physical activity, recreational sport, and exercise training in children and adolescents with CHD. In general, children with CHD should be advised to comply with public health recommendations of daily participation in 60 min or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity that is developmentally appropriate and enjoyable and involves a variety of activities. While all patients with CHD can participate and benefit from physical activity and exercise, those with specific lesions or complications may require counselling regarding precautions and recommendations.
Takken et al. (Mon,) conducted a review in Congenital heart disease. Physical activity, recreational sport, and exercise training was evaluated. Children and adolescents with congenital heart disease should be advised to participate daily in 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, with specific counselling for certain lesions.