Exercise training in post-myocardial infarction patients.

Programmes of exercise training as a contribution to the rehabilitation of the patient with coronary heart disease (CHD) have received widespread attention during the past few years. Although improvements in work capacity resulting from such training programmes have been reported the mechanism producing the improvement has not been definitely identified. Improved oxygen delivery and extraction in the periphery will allow an increased aerobic capacity without any improvement in cardiac function, but there are suggestions that cardiac adaptations may also occur which will enhance work capacity.