Which plan describes the weekly exercise duration for stable cardiovascular patients?

• A. 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, plus resistance training.
• B. 75 minutes of vigorous activity daily.
• C. 30 minutes per week, only stretching.
• D. No aerobic activity.

Answer: (A)

The main idea tested is the recommended weekly amount and type of exercise for stable cardiovascular patients. The best plan matches standard guidelines: about 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, plus resistance training on 2–3 days each week. This combination provides cardiovascular conditioning while also improving muscle strength and metabolic health, which is important in stable cardiac patients.

Why this plan fits: 150 minutes per week of moderate activity can be spread across several days (for example, 30 minutes most days), making it attainable and sustainable. Adding resistance training ensures you’re not just building endurance but also maintaining or increasing muscle strength, which supports overall heart health and daily functioning.

Why the other options aren’t as appropriate: a plan that implies 75 minutes of vigorous activity every day would total much more than 150 minutes per week and demands high intensity daily, which isn’t the standard recommendation for most stable patients. A plan with only 30 minutes per week of stretching provides insufficient aerobic conditioning. A plan with no aerobic activity misses the essential cardiovascular stimulus altogether.