Cardiac Rehab: Phases & Exercises To Help Your Heart

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide, but the good news is that structured rehabilitation can help patients recover, strengthen their heart, and live healthier lives after a cardiac event. This structured recovery process is known as Cardiac Rehabilitation (Cardiac Rehab).

Cardiac rehab is not just about exercise—it is a comprehensive program combining physical activity, lifestyle modification, education, and counseling to improve heart health. In Faridabad, ArthroRehab is recognized as the best physiotherapy clinic, offering advanced cardiac rehab programs under the expert guidance of Dr. Sandeep Hooda and Dr. Bharat Bhardwaj—the best physiotherapists in Faridabad.

What Is Cardiac Rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to:

Help patients recover after a heart attack, bypass surgery, angioplasty, or heart failure.
Improve cardiovascular fitness through structured exercises.
Educate patients on lifestyle changes, diet, and stress management.
Reduce the risk of future heart complications.

It is usually prescribed by cardiologists as part of post-treatment recovery and plays a crucial role in long-term heart health.

Phases of Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehab is typically divided into four phases, each focusing on progressive recovery:

Phase 1: Inpatient Rehab (Hospital Phase)

Begins immediately after a cardiac event or surgery.
Focuses on early mobilization (gentle movements, breathing exercises).
Education on precautions and energy conservation.
Psychological support to reduce anxiety post-surgery.

Phase 2: Early Outpatient Rehab (Supervised Exercise)

Starts a few weeks after discharge, under close medical supervision.
Structured exercise programs including treadmill walking, stationary cycling, and light resistance training.
Monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels during activity.
Education on heart-healthy lifestyle and medication adherence.

Phase 3: Structured Outpatient Program (Intensive Training)

Patients progress to moderate-intensity exercises tailored to their fitness.
Involves endurance training, flexibility, and strength-building exercises.
Focuses on increasing physical activity safely without straining the heart.
Counseling on nutrition, smoking cessation, and stress reduction.

Phase 4: Maintenance Phase (Long-Term Wellness)

A lifelong commitment to regular exercise and heart-healthy habits.
Patients continue exercises independently or at a rehab clinic.
Periodic follow-ups with physiotherapists and cardiologists.
Emphasis on preventing relapse and maintaining quality of life.

Exercises in Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehab exercises are designed to strengthen the heart gradually without overloading it. Common exercises include:

1. Aerobic Exercises

Walking (treadmill or outdoor)
Cycling (stationary bike)
Swimming (once cleared by doctor)
Low-impact aerobics

Benefits: Improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, enhances endurance.

2. Strength Training

Light weights or resistance bands
Leg raises, wall push-ups, seated squats
Focus on small muscle groups with controlled breathing

Benefits: Builds muscle strength, improves metabolism, supports overall fitness.

3. Flexibility and Stretching

Yoga-based stretches
Static stretches for arms, legs, and back
Breathing and relaxation exercises

Benefits: Reduces stiffness, prevents injury, promotes relaxation.

4. Balance and Core Stability

Gentle balance exercises
Core strengthening (under supervision)

Benefits: Prevents falls, improves posture, supports safe mobility.

⚠️ Important: All exercises must be tailored individually and supervised by trained physiotherapists, especially in the early phases, to ensure safety and avoid complications.

Role of Physiotherapy in Cardiac Rehab

Physiotherapists play a critical role in guiding patients through cardiac rehab. They:

Design safe, customized exercise programs.
Monitor vital signs during physical activity.
Teach breathing techniques to improve lung and heart function.
Provide lifestyle counseling for long-term heart health.

ArthroRehab – Best Physiotherapy Clinic in Faridabad for Cardiac Rehab

When it comes to structured cardiac rehabilitation, ArthroRehab stands out as the most advanced physiotherapy clinic in Faridabad. With state-of-the-art facilities, personalized programs, and a holistic approach, ArthroRehab helps patients regain strength, confidence, and independence after a cardiac event.

Why ArthroRehab?

Supervised sessions with expert physiotherapists.
Advanced rehab equipment and safe exercise environment.
Patient-centric care focused on long-term heart wellness.
Comprehensive programs covering exercise, diet, and counseling.

Dr. Sandeep Hooda & Dr. Bharat Bhardwaj – The Best Physiotherapists in Faridabad

The success of cardiac rehab depends heavily on professional expertise. At ArthroRehab, patients are guided by Dr. Sandeep Hooda and Dr. Bharat Bhardwaj, widely regarded as the best physiotherapists in Faridabad.

Dr. Sandeep Hooda specializes in advanced rehabilitation techniques and cardiac exercise programming.
Dr. Bharat Bhardwaj is known for his patient-focused care, ensuring safe recovery and long-term benefits.

Together, they provide world-class physiotherapy care, ensuring patients rebuild their strength and confidence with every session.

Final Thoughts

Cardiac rehabilitation is more than just recovery—it is a journey towards a stronger, healthier, and more active life. With structured phases, safe exercises, and expert supervision, patients can regain independence and reduce the risk of future heart problems.

For residents of Faridabad, ArthroRehab is the best physiotherapy clinic for cardiac rehab, guided by the expertise of Dr. Sandeep Hooda and Dr. Bharat Bhardwaj, the best physiotherapists in Faridabad.

Investing in cardiac rehab today means investing in a healthier tomorrow for your heart.