HeartSmart

Specifically for people who have just completed cardiac rehabilitation at a hospital or have established coronary heart disease. The scheme has been designed to provide the opportunity and choice of taking part in safe, and effective exercise sessions.

The Exercise Advisers at these HeartSmart sessions have undergone further training and are qualified exercise specialists in this cardiac field. Their aims are:

• To provide regular safe and effective exercise sessions
• To provide you with an individual exercise programme for use in sessions and during your own time
• To review and develop your exercise programme accordingly, as you progress
• To offer advice and support

Click here to download a Heart Smart leaflet.

Where do I start?

 To access the scheme you will need to request a HeartSmart Exercise Referral form and a Patient Guideline Sheet from your GP, practice nurse or cardiac rehab nurse.

Ask your GP or practice nurse about the scheme and decide with them whether this is right for you. If you have just completed a cardiac rehabilitation programme at the hospital, ask the Cardiac Rehab Nurse for a referral form.

Ring Active Lifestyles on 020 8290 4000, explain that you have a referral form and you need an Initial Appointment for the HeartSmart scheme.

An initial appointment will be made for you at one of our centres where you will meet our specially trained Exercise Advisers who will advise and plan a personal programme for you. The Exercise Adviser will discuss your needs and prescribe a programme of activity for cardiovascular benefits.

Click here to download details of HeartSmart session times and venues

Participant Feedback:

'The instructor runs her class with enthusiasm and empathy for each individual's abilities. Her sense of humour gives the class a friendly atmosphere. She is careful that people exercise sensibly and explains the implications for Heart Rate etc. I look forward to my next class, what more can I say.'

'I have just been to my first gym session. I really enjoyed it as I felt welcome and exhilarated afterwards. I look forward to future sessions.'