Is Cardiac Rehab for you ?

As per the British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation, cardiac rehab is defined as β€œthe coordinated sum of activities required to influence favourably the underlying cause of cardiovascular disease, as well as to provide the best possible physical, mental, and social conditions, so that patients may, by their own efforts, preserve or resume optimal functioning in their community and through improved health behaviour, slow or reverse progression of disease.”

The following patient groups are known to benefit and should be offered Cardiac Rehab irrespective of age, sex, ethnic group, and clinical condition:

  • Acute Coronary Syndrome (Heart Attacks)

  • Coronary revascularisation (PCI)

  • Heart failure

  • Stable angina

  • Pre- and post-implantation of cardiac defibrillators and resynchronisation devices

  • Post-heart valve repair/replacement

  • Post-heart transplantation and ventricular assist devices

  • Adult congenital heart disease (ACHD)

There is evidence that other patient groups may also benefit from Cardiac Rehab:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF)

  • Non-obstructive coronary artery disease (NOCAD)

  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD)

So, what are the different Phases of Cardiac rehab, and which ones for me?

It can be broken down into the 4 following phases:

Different Phases of Cardiac REHAB

  • Phase 1

    Inpatient care

    This phase begins while the person is still in the hospital following a cardiac event or surgery. It includes early mobilisation, education on heart heath, medication prescribed and follow up plans. Healthcare professionals assess the patient's condition and provide initial advice on lifestyle changes.

  • Phase 2

    Early post-discharge

    This phase start when a person is discharged from hospital and back home. They are usually followed up by the Cardiac Rehab team to assess how they have been since being home and typically answer any questions or concerns. As part of the introduction the Cardiac Rehab team will invite the person to a clinic appointment to discuss their rehab in more detail. This is normally facilitated by a Cardiac Specialist Nurse accompanied by an Exercise Physiologist.

  • Phase 3

    Outpatient rehabilitation

    After the initial clinic the person would be offered a structured rehabilitation program that can range between 8-12 weeks. The two modes of delivery are either face-to-face or a hybrid approach. The Programme consists of exercise prescriptions under supervision, with the constant monitoring of all risk factor associated with someone’s rehab (e.g. blood pressure, heart rate, lifestyle factors etc).

  • Phase 4

    Community exercise programmes

    Once someone finishes their Cardiac Rehab, they are then provided with information regarding Phase 4 community programmes. These programmes are done by private instructors with BACPR qualifications. It is a continuation from phase 3 and provides people with the opportunity to maintain or progress their fitness in similar environments.

Our Phase iv pROGRAMMES

  • Flexi-Class

    - Flexible attendance for single sessions

    - Group exercise in a supportive environment

    - Heart health tips and Q&A with a specialist

    - Suitable for all fitness levels

    - No long-term commitment

  • 12 - Week Programme

    - Group-based classes (1x per week for 12 weeks)

    - Tailored exercise plans for heart health

    - Ongoing support from a Clinical Specialists

    - Educational materials on maintaining Cardiovascular Health

  • Continued Subscription

    - Ongoing group-based classes (1x per week)

    - Continued tailored exercise and progression

    - Updated educational resources to support long-term cardiovascular health

    - Access to Q&A sessions for advice on maintaining fitness and lifestyle adjustments

Current Classes

Kettering

 

Barnet