Heart Workshop (Available at Maryport, Whitehaven & Workington)
Brief Description:
The Heart Workshop is a combined Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation and General Exercise on Referral class. These structured classes are led by qualified British Association for Cardiac Rehabilitation (BACR) Instructors.
Content:
Each class lasts for around 1 hour and consists of 10-15 minutes gradual warm-up and stretching followed by 15-20 minutes of circuit training. The circuit is a series of cardiovascular (aerobic) and resistance (strength) exercise stations including: Step-ups, Light Weights, Therabands, Sit-to-Stand and more. Once the circuit training is completed, the group moves on to the cardiovascular exercise machines for a further 20-25 minutes. There is a range of cardiovascular equipment, such as: Treadmills, Exercise Bikes, Rowing Machines, Cross-trainers and Steppers. Each client does a variety of machines usually for between 2 and 10 minutes depending on their level of fitness and ability. To finish off the session, there is a 10 minute cool-down with stretching.
Clients are closely monitored throughout the session and are only encouraged to increase their exercise levels when it is appropriate. New clients are asked to wear a heart rate monitor and record their heart rate and Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) for each exercise until they are familiar with how they feel when exercising at a safe intensity. A safe Heart Rate Training Zone is calculated according to age and medication for each client when they start.
Who Suitable For:
Patients suitable for referral to these classes include those who suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, angina, depression and a range of other chronic conditions. Other patients are referred from West Cumberland Hospital either by the Cardiac Rehabilitation Team following completion of the Phase III Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme or directly by the Consultant Cardiologist. Patients suitable for Cardiac Rehabilitation include those who are post myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other coronary event and those who have undergone bypass surgery, angioplasty, valve replacement or other coronary procedure.