Intensive cardiac rehabilitation (ICR) is a comprehensive program designed to improve the cardiovascular health of individuals who have experienced a cardiac event or have been diagnosed with heart disease. It typically involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes supervised exercise training, education on heart-healthy lifestyle behaviors, stress management techniques, and nutritional counseling.
The goals of intensive cardiac rehab are to:
Improve cardiovascular fitness: Structured exercise sessions under the supervision of trained professionals help participants improve their cardiovascular endurance and strength, which can reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
Educate on heart-healthy lifestyle choices: Participants receive information on topics such as proper nutrition, smoking cessation, medication adherence, stress reduction, and the importance of regular physical activity.
Manage risk factors: The program addresses common risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, through targeted interventions and support.
Provide psychological support: Dealing with heart disease can be emotionally challenging. Intensive cardiac rehab often includes counseling or support groups to help participants cope with stress, anxiety, and depression related to their condition.
Enhance overall quality of life: By improving physical fitness, adopting healthier lifestyle habits, and managing risk factors, participants can experience a better quality of life and reduce the likelihood of future cardiac events.
ICR programs typically run for 72 sessions
ICR programs are typically conducted in specialized cardiac rehabilitation centers or hospitals and are tailored to meet the individual needs and preferences of participants. Participation in an ICR program is usually recommended by a healthcare provider following a cardiac event, such as a heart attack, heart surgery, or diagnosis of heart disease.
With multiple exercise physiologists and personal trainers onsite, we are able to offer these services as standalones even if you are not eligible for our ICR services.