The three-phase Cardiac Rehabilitation program concentrates on helping heart patients make necessary changes in their lifestyles and maintain healthy fitness levels once they have recovered from surgery, angioplasty or heart attack. I is an education and exercise program for hospitalized patients who are recovering from a heart attack or coronary artery bypass surgery. After approximately 4 to 6 weeks of recovery, Phase II of the rehabilitation program begins, which includes monitored exercise, education on a heart-healthy diet , heart disease risk factor management and counseling. Phase III helps patients maintain their new fitness level. People who have never had heart problems but are at high risk because of heredity or lifestyle are welcome to participate in the third phase of the program to help prevent problems before they occur.
Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart and helps it pump more effectively.
Cardiac Rehabilitation staff work with participants on individualized exercise programs. Patients are closely monitored during exercise sessions to make sure they are exercising at a comfortable pace. Treadmills, stationary bicycles, rowing machines and other exercise equipment are available as well as dressing rooms and showers. Registered dietitians show patients how to make heart-healthy food choices at home, in the grocery store and in restaurants. Since stress is a factor in 80 percent of all illnesses, the stress management seminar offered by Cardiac Rehabilitation staff helps patients learn techniques to reduce stress.