Positive steps towards recovery
What is cardiac rehab?
Cardiac rehabilitation includes exercise, education and support to assist ongoing recovery from a cardiac problem.
It is tailored to individual patients and can be different for everybody.
It can differ widely depending on the cardiac condition and goals or circumstances of the patient.
In general, the aims of cardiac rehab are to
- improve overall well-being
- help patients return to a full life
- to reduce the risk of future heart problems through lifestyle changes
- to offer support for both physical and emotional health.
How can I get started?
If you are interested in accessing cardiac rehabilitation please speak first to your specialist nurse or cardiologist.
If you are not currently under hospital care please discuss cardiac rehab with your GP. They can refer you to a specialist to discuss how rehab might be appropriate in your specific case.
Useful resources
Cardiac rehabilitation (British Heart Foundation)
Getting back to as full a life as possible after cardiac illness, treatment or heart failure diagnosis.
A comprehensive guide from BHF with options for building an exercise, education and support programme that matches your personal circumstances to help you recover.
Exercise videos (British Heart Foundation)
You should only use these videos if you have received a cardiac rehabilitation assessment and started or completed a programme.
Cardio rehab exercise videos.
Medical experts have created easy-to-follow videos for all levels. Pick your level and exercise at home in your own time. You can even join an 8-week email programme to keep you motivated.