If you have mild to moderate mitral valve regurgitation (MR) and do not have symptoms, you likely do not have to limit your physical activity.

But if you have severe MR, you may need to limit your physical activity.

• People who have no symptoms and whose left ventricle functions normally may participate in normal physical activity and exercise without limitation.¹
• People with mild symptoms, enlargement of the left ventricle, or atrial fibrillation should limit their exercise to activities that place low to moderate demands on the heart. Exercises such as walking and swimming may be appropriate.
• Any exercise program you begin should advance gradually.

You should avoid isometric exercise, which is exercise that uses muscle contraction to strengthen and tone your muscles. Isometric exercise usually involves pushing against resistance, as in weight lifting. These types of exercises can elevate your blood pressure, thereby increasing the force against which your heart must pump blood. In fact, as a rule, you should avoid activities that involve sudden physical exertion at a level that is significantly greater than that required for your normal activities.

If you have questions or concerns about what physical activities are appropriate for you, talk to your doctor. Even with MR, you may be able to develop an exercise plan that suits your lifestyle.

If you have developed heart failure as a result of your mitral regurgitation, see the topic Heart Failure for specific exercise information.