Cardiac rehabilitation programs are a critical, and sometimes overlooked, part of heart surgery recovery. As my 2007 survey showed, only 51% of patients attended structured classes with cardiac rehab exercises during their recovery. In my opinion, that is a shame. I could go on-and-on about the physical and mental benefits of good cardiac rehabilitation programs.

However, I just received a quick question that reads, “What types of exercises do you do at cardiac rehab centers?”

Well… I guess I would have to answers, “It depends.” I say that because each facility may have a different approach to strengthening the human body following heart surgery.

However, I can share with you what I experienced at The Cardiac Care Center at Torrance Memorial Hospital in Torrance, California. In fact, I just pulled out my cardiac rehab excercise book. Here is a list of the main exercises I participated in during my three month program:

• Stationary bicycle
• Rowing machine
• Elliptical machine
• Treadmill
• Light weights - 5 to 15 pounds
• Arm cycling

The other thing I did to really help my bones and muscles feel better was STRETCH. I was always stretching during my recovery. In the morning I stretched. In the evening I stretched. In fact, it felt so good then, I’m gonna go stretch right now!!!

:)

I hope that helps explain more about the different kinds of exercise at cardiac rehab.

Keep on tickin!

[1] To learn more about Adam and his heart valve surgery book, click here.