Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Program: A Guide for Recovery

Introduction

This guide outlines safe exercise techniques for patients recovering from cardiac events or procedures.

Before You Begin

• Obtain clearance from your cardiologist
• Have your medication list ready
• Wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes
• Keep nitroglycerin nearby if prescribed

Warm-Up (5-10 minutes)

1. Gentle marching in place
2. Shoulder rolls
3. Ankle circles
4. Light arm stretches

Main Exercise Components

1. Aerobic Exercise (15-30 minutes)

• Walking: Start with 5-10 minutes
• Stationary cycling: Low resistance
• Target heart rate: [220 - age] × (50-70%)

2. Strength Training (10-15 minutes)

• Wall push-ups: 8-12 repetitions
• Seated knee lifts: 10 each leg
• Chair squats: 8-12 repetitions

3. Cool-Down (5-10 minutes)

• Slow walking
• Gentle stretching

Safety Guidelines

Stop Exercise If You Experience:

• Chest pain/pressure
• Unusual shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat

Monitoring

• Use RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) scale: 11-13/20
• Check pulse regularly
• Record exercise in provided log

Progression

Increase duration and intensity only as directed by your cardiac rehabilitation team.