Glendale Memorial's Cardiac Fitness Center (CFC) assists those with heart disease to work to regain a normal lifestyle utilizing techniques of progressive exercise and lifestyle modification.
After the initial phases of rehabilitation, patients may continue to exercise in a safe environment, where healthy lifestyle changes are reinforced. Started nearly 20 years ago, the CFC has grown into a full-fledged cardiac rehabilitation gym, located in a spacious and convenient area on the second floor of the Heart Center. The CFC works with patients and their families to create a healthier lifestyle designed to prevent further cardiac disease.
Four-Phase Program
Phase One: In-Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation
This first phase is offered to patients who have suffered a heart attack, angina or have undergone procedures such as coronary bypass surgery, stent, or angioplasty. In this phase, patients receive rehabilitation while in the hospital's Critical Care Center where CFC nurses begin by sitting the patient up in the chair to perform some basic arm and leg exercises.
Phase Two:
Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Once patients are discharged from the hospital, their cardiologist may refer them to this program. The goal is to learn to exercise properly in order to improve cardiovascular status, as well as modifying all cardiac risk factors. The duration of Phase Two is anywhere from four to 12 weeks, depending on the doctor's orders. In addition to exercise, the program teaches participants how to manage their heart disease.
Phase Three:
The Maintenance Phase With their doctor's permission, patients who graduated from phase II may continue to exercise in the gym and learn to monitor their own heart rate and blood pressure. The CFC staff continues to supervise the program, however, this phase helps participants realize they are in charge of their own health.
Phase Four:
Health Fit There is a nominal fee for this program and members may use the gym up to 12 times per month. They are also welcome to participate, free of charge, in any cardiac education classes offered by the CFC. Participants will need permission from their physician.
The CFC has a variety of exercise equipment. A medical director oversees the program, which is staffed with nurses, a dietitian and an exercise physiologist.
For more information on the CFC Program, please call (818) 502-2303 today.
