Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Physical Exercise on Aerobic Capacity in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), non-communicable chronic diseases-primarily cardiovascular diseases-are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. These conditions result in long-term health consequences and require significant ongoing treatment and care. Among them, ischemic heart diseases-most notably acute myocardial infarction-are highly prevalent. Globally, cardiovascular diseases are closely linked to physical inactivity as a major modifiable risk factor. In this context, exercise and physical activity have become public health priorities, with international guidelines recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. In Colombia, physical exercise is recognized as a key strategy for the prevention and management of non-communicable chronic diseases, as outlined in the national ten-year public health plan. However, evidence shows that few clinical services at the national or regional level consistently monitor or follow up on the proper prescription of exercise as a therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease management. This study aims to describe the effectiveness of structured physical exercise on the aerobic capacity of patients with cardiovascular disease.