Finishing cardiac rehab - what next?

[Maradona10]

Hi, I've got two weeks left. Making good progress in terms of getting back to my full fitness. I'm a long distance runner. Not sure how to proceed when the six week course ends. I have been considering asking the main cardiac physio if she'd devise me a programme and I'd pay for her time. Not sure. Is that an odd thing to do? I'm really keen to get back running safely. But There seems to be so little guidance once the course is over.

I wondered if you guys had any info on programs that are curated by cardiac physios aimed at getting back to a high level of fitness?

Thanks

[Rhinos67]

HelloOnce my course ended I was offered a reduced rate membership at the local council leisure centres. One of the fitness instructors who ran the Cardiac rehab class works in they gym at a local one, so he devised me a programme and I book in for him to review it and amend it every 6 weeks.

I was never a long distance runner though. 10k was my max

Good luck 🤞

Joanne

[Herestous]

A physio sounds like an idea. In the mean time BHF has their exercise for rehab on line which goes to level 5. Maybe that's a start? Good luck xxx Vicky

[Survivor1952]

I had encouragement from my rehab team to do the local Parkrun after I asked if it was ok to try couch to 5k. I’m on my 8th so far, did my first at 12 weeks post op.

In my area there is a post rehab series of classes but they are really aimed at the less active amongst us. I still go as they do help by using muscles not used in running or swimming. There is a small fee but that isn’t a problem.

[Maradona10 in reply to Survivor1952]

Thanks. Well done with the running. I believe there is a pretty gentle phase four class near me too.

[Happyrosie]

in addition to your other replies -all on the mail - your gp should have in the practice, or groups of practices, one or more people called Social Prescribers. They are the people who can point you in the right direction for this sort of thing, if your cardiac nurse does not. Give your gp practical ring or it might be on their website.

[Jerrahem]

hi. Good to hear that! I am still waiting for mine. Been really active before procedure, really enjoy football and gym.

I know it is a long process but looking forward to it . But I am wondering is the rehab alone enough to get back where I was.

[RufusScamp]

I am just finishing a programme, and we are going to be told next week of follow-up options. I hope this is the same for you.

[HeartofLondon]

I asked my physio the same question 'What happens after this?' They laughed. You have to keep up blood pumping physio 3x a week for the rest of your life. It's a challenge. As a long distance runner, you should be ok.