Graded exercise after a cardiac event

After a cardiac event, exercise stops being something you either do or avoid and becomes something that is prescribed — in a specific amount, at a specific intensity, and adjusted as you respond. That is what graded means.

Why it is supervised

Cardiac rehabilitation sits alongside your medical care rather than replacing it. Sessions are monitored so that intensity can be matched to what your heart is currently comfortable doing, and increased only when the response supports it. Your cardiologist’s guidance sets the boundaries we work within.

What the progression looks like

Early sessions are usually short and gentle — walking, simple movement, breathing work — with close attention to how you feel and recover. As tolerance improves, duration increases before intensity does. Strength work is introduced gradually once the aerobic base is established.

What we watch for

• How quickly your heart rate settles after effort
• Breathlessness relative to the work being done
• Any chest discomfort, dizziness or unusual fatigue

Any of those change the session immediately. Stopping early is a normal part of the process, not a failure.

Before you start

Cardiac physiotherapy needs your medical team on board first. Bring your discharge summary, current medication list and any advice you have already been given, and we will build the plan inside those limits.