Instructed patient during your recovery, find out what pace is right for you as you work your way toward a physically active lifestyle. Under your practitioner’s guidance, you should gradually build up your exercise and activity level. Before you begin a new strenuous activity, make sure it’s okay and find out if you have any guidelines to follow concerning your heart rate or level of exertion. To improve overall cardiovascular health, follow a regular exercise program that includes moderate physical activity for 150 minutes a week.