A high resting heart rate measured in the supine position is a relative contraindication to exercise because it may indicate instability. What is the appropriate action?

A high resting heart rate measured in the supine position is a relative contraindication to exercise because it may indicate instability. What is the appropriate action?

• A. Increase exercise intensity.
• B. Proceed with plan as is.
• C. Limit exercise.
• D. Focus on flexibility only.

Answer: (C)

A high resting heart rate when lying down can signal cardiovascular instability or that the body may not tolerate exercise well at that moment. Because this is treated as a relative contraindication, the safest action is to limit exercise and avoid pushing intensity or volume until medical evaluation clarifies safety. Monitor vitals, consider postponing formal training, and seek medical clearance if the high heart rate persists or is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Pushing ahead or increasing intensity would ignore the warning sign; focusing only on flexibility wouldn’t address the potential instability.

A high resting heart rate when lying down can signal cardiovascular instability or that the body may not tolerate exercise well at that moment. Because this is treated as a relative contraindication, the safest action is to limit exercise and avoid pushing intensity or volume until medical evaluation clarifies safety. Monitor vitals, consider postponing formal training, and seek medical clearance if the high heart rate persists or is accompanied by symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Pushing ahead or increasing intensity would ignore the warning sign; focusing only on flexibility wouldn’t address the potential instability.