Physical activity in the prevention of ischaemic heart disease.

Among the 5 main motor functions of coordination, flexibility, strength, velocity, and endurance, mainly the last one is of essential preventive cardiological significance. There are peripheral and central metabolic and haemodynamic adaptations which can reduce the oxygen demand of the heart muscle. The flow properties of the blood are improved combined with an antithrombotic effect. Endurance training induces alterations in the lipoprotein metabolism which could be useful for protection against arteriosclerosis. Effects of training on some hormones are described in connection with silent heart ischaemia. The listed protective results of endurance training are the sum of all possibilities of training related to different sports events, exercise intensities and duration. A recommendation is given for a minimum training program based on practical experience.