"Prince of Wales Cardiac Rehabilitation Program"

This program was so valuable. It helped me regain my confidence to exercise after undergoing a cardiac procedure. The program was extremely supportive. It was group-based, which meant that participants could share experiences and celebrate progress together. You do not feel you are on your own at what is a difficult time in your life. Instead, you feel supported and part of a group achieving something  together. The personal interactions, information and encouragement received from staff were so important for my recovery.  

The program supported participants with advice about exercise, nutrition, medication and psychology. If any participant need more detailed advice about any of these areas, the program was a great contact point for them.The exercise component catered to the abilities of each participant, which varied greatly. It gradually increased the amount of exercise being done over about a 12 week period, while before and after measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels and weight were taken each session. The nurses and physiotherapists provided excellent advice about medical care, exercise techniques and progressing to new levels (such as the High Intensity Interval Program). They also liaised with my cardiologist to recommend a reduction in my blood pressure medication. So while the program was group-based, a high degree of personalised care was provided to each participant. For me, this program has been highly effective in establishing health promoting habits. I now consistently go to the gym on each day I would have attended the program and do the same workout. This has helped me further improve my strength, aerobic fitness and lose more weight. Without the program, I am not sure if I would have been able to make the same progress.