Cardiac Rehab FAQs
Our team is always here to answer your questions, but some questions come up more frequently than others, so we have compiled a list of answers to get you started.
Our team of clinical exercise physiologists, registered dieticians, registered nurses, physicians and behavioral health specialists make sure you have all the information and support you need. They’re always ready to answer any questions you may have. Some questions come up more frequently than others, so we have compiled a list of answers to get you started.
Often called the "Confidence Course", cardiac rehabilitation is a medically-supervised program consisting of exercise, education on heart-healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress, which help you return to an active lifestyle.
Cardiac rehab is designed for patients with recent heart problems including, but not limited to:
At Henry Ford we believe in a team approach, which is why our cardiac rehab program includes an expert team of clinical exercise physiologists, dietitians, nurses, your doctor, behavioral health specialists and you. While in cardiac rehab, you will receive a personalized exercise program that takes into consideration your unique situation and medical needs.
Your exercise routine will be focused on machines to help make your heart and body stronger. Where you start and what machines you use varies depending on your capabilities and medical condition, but may include a treadmill, bike, seated elliptical, or a rower. For some individuals in cardiac rehab, a strength training program may also be incorporated. Regardless of your individualized program, you will continually be assessed as you gradually build up your strength and endurance.
While you exercise you will initially wear an ECG monitor* that records your heart rhythm. The staff closely monitors you, so you can feel confident to exercise to your fullest potential.
Throughout your program our staff will update you and your doctor about your progress. Our goal is for you to learn how to take better care of your heart and become independent with your exercise program.
*after a period of visits many patients will come off the ECG monitor, but will still have their heart rate monitored during exercise.
The typical cardiac rehab schedule is two or three days a week. Most health insurance companies cover 36 visits of cardiac rehab, however, it is recommended that you look into your individual plan for deductibles and co-pays. Most individuals’ complete cardiac rehabilitation in three months, however, this can vary depending on how often you attend. Each exercise session is one hour long. In addition to your exercise sessions there are education classes, led by our team. These weekly classes are typically 45 minutes long and are offered either before or after your exercise sessions. For those who are unable to attend the education classes, the same material is available online.
There is no set dress code for cardiac rehab and patients do not need to go out and necessarily purchase “work-out” attire. Patients are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and good supportive walking or athletic shoes.
There are four nutrition classes. The Heart Smart® Program at Henry Ford aims to promote a heart-healthy lifestyle by reducing controllable risk factors for heart disease such as blood cholesterol levels, obesity and blood pressure. Our Heart Smart® classes include:
There are four health and wellness classes. These classes are designed to be interactive and welcome questions from the patients.
Let us help you schedule an appointment.
Our team is always here to answer your questions, but some questions come up more frequently than others, so we have compiled a list of answers to get you started.
Find tips on eating healthy, staying fit and reducing stress to advice on chronic disease management. We have many articles and recipes to help support a healthy heart.
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Please call 911 if you have an emergency or urgent medical question.
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