Cardiac Rehabilitation: Home Program

Overview

Your cardiac rehabilitation (rehab) might include an exercise program that you do at home. You might start this program after you go home from the hospital. The home program can be one part, or phase, of your cardiac rehab.

The goals of a home program include:

• Making a smooth transition from hospital to home.
• Taking care of yourself after you leave the hospital.
• Getting stronger and being more active.

Your home program will vary in length depending upon your medical history and current condition.

Home exercise program

Your exercises at home depend on your medical history, clinical status, and symptoms. Your cardiac rehab team will create an exercise program just for you.

Exercise progresses from activities of daily life to regular exercise. You may walk or ride a stationary bike.

Discuss additional physical limitations or medical issues with your doctor before you begin any exercise program.

How fast you progress will depend on your overall cardiovascular and muscular strength. Always warm up and cool down. Never exercise at an intensity that causes shortness of breath soon after open-heart surgery. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid extreme weather conditions and temperatures. In extreme weather, you can try walking indoors at a mall or a gym.