The purpose of this study is to compare coronary angioplasty with stent implantation with an exercise rehabilitation program in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Angiographically documented CAD, with at least one coronary artery stenosis of more than 50% in a native segment never subjected to intervention, which is recommended for treatment with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA).
• Stable coronary artery disease
• Eligible patients could be asymptomatic or have class I to III angina (Canadian Cardiovascular Society [CCS]) with documented myocardial ischemia
• Angina pectoris threshold > 50 Watt (cycle ergometry)
• Permanent residence should be within 25 km of training facility.

Exclusion Criteria:

• < 18 or > 70 years of age
• Patient currently participating in an exercise training program
• Unstable angina pectoris or myocardial infarction during the last 2 weeks
• Symptoms of CCS class IV
• Exercise limitations due to clinical conditions not related to CAD
• Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of < 40%
• Ventricular arrhythmia (Lown Ivb)
• Hemodynamically significant valvular heart disease
• Previous cardiac surgery
• PTCA performed during the last 12 months
• Any major non-cardiac condition that would adversely affect survival during the duration of the study
• Reduced compliance