I was diagnosed with a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy 4 years ago.  Ironically, my mother had been diagnosed less than a year before me.  The most common cause of death with d.c. is sudden cardiac arrest.  D.C. is characterized by an enlargement of the heart and a decreased ability of the heart to effectively pump blood.  The efficiency of the heart is measured by something called ejection fraction.  I am under the understanding that no-one is ever at 100%.  Measurement of ejection fraction is done using an echocardiogram and is not an exact science.  Two technicians or cardiologists looking at the same echo quite often come up with different measurements.  Foe this reason an ejection fraction is given in ranges.  Upon diagnosis mine was 25-30%.  I have been on medication that seems to have stopped it from dropping preventing worsening heart failure but the hope is that treatment will raise EF some. It hasnt in my case.  In any case,  the point of this is that my activity level has been affected by this as i tire much more easily, am not supposed to lift anything over 15 lbs (sorry but my grandson weighs more than that as does my purse probably) and ha e to keep my heartrate below 150 (i think).  Thats one guideline i am pretty good about following because any higher and i will receive a shock from my defibrillator.  Not a pleasant sensation.  So...this is an adventure to see exactly what i can do physically.  People exercise to strengthen their heart and lungs. Not sure if exercise will make mine any stronger but within reason and using common sense, it can hurt.  Also supporting my body with less weight attached has got to help too.  Here we go!  Good luck eberyone and stay strong.