(HealthDay News) -- Having a heart attack shouldn't put an end to an active lifestyle.

The American Heart Association offers these guidelines for when you resume exercise:

• Exercise only if your doctor says it's safe.
• Begin each workout with a gentle warm-up and end with a cool-down.
• Monitor the intensity of your activity, making sure it's within the recommended range.
• Monitor your heart rate and blood pressure.
• Be aware of warning signs that you're pushing yourself too hard, including chest pain, lightheadedness or feeling out of breath.

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