Exploring exercise adherence in phase III cardiovascular rehabilitation post myocardial infarction.

Oral Presentation B7.3

Authors

  • Alyx Taylor AECC University College
  • Harvey Mormen Bournemouth University; AECC University College

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.531

Keywords:

Cardiovascular Rehabilitation, Myocardial Infarction, Exercise Prescription, Exercise Referral

Abstract

Background: Research evidence supports the use of exercise as an effective part of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR), and for long-term reduction of risk factors for cardiovascular incidents. Research shows those who engage fully in CR exercise programmes build up stamina for activities they had previously enjoyed. The increased freedom and confidence can raise the overall quality of life. However, despite evidence of the efficacy of CR, only 15 – 30% of eligible patients attend and 50% of those discontinue the exercise by 12months. Purpose: The study explored the experience of exercise prior to and during phase III CR to inform strategies to encourage maintenance of regular exercise as a lifestyle change. Methods: Qualitative data was collected from six volunteers (35–75years), who had recently undertaken exercise prescribed in phase III CR, through one-to-one semi-structured interviews. Interpretive phenomenological analysis from a critical realist perspective was undertaken independently by two researchers. Results: Themes included potential keys to address the aim of the study. First, “incidental exercise”, revealed physical fitness was previously incidental to motivations for taking exercise, for example: to engage competitively; to engage in social interactions; or to relax through leisure activity. The themes “normality” captured the desire to regain former capabilities and “self-evaluation” the desire to regularly measure change in physical fitness, or compare oneself with others. Conclusions: Qualitative analysis revealed possible target areas for enhancing positive experience of exercise in phase III CR programmes and potentially encouraging lifestyle change. Funding: None.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Taylor, A., & Mormen, H. (2021). Exploring exercise adherence in phase III cardiovascular rehabilitation post myocardial infarction.: Oral Presentation B7.3. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.531