Physical training is part of the recommendations for prevention and rehabilitation of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The main focus was on endurance training for a long time. However, a positive effect of strength training has also been found for patients with with a wide spectrum of diseases. Beside the improvement of muscle strength similar positive effects as with endurance training have been documented. Moreover, improvements of quality of life and mobility have been found, mainly for older patients. Resistance training is safe and can be recommended to a wide range of patients including those with reduced left ventricular function.