Phase 4 cardiac rehabilitation: a comparison of exercise intensity levels and ratings of perceived exertion between cardiac and non-cardiac participants

Meta-analyses of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) trials have shown improved survival^1,2 and significant improvements in cardio-respiratory fitness for individuals who have sustained a myocardial infarction (MI).³ According to the British Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation (BACR) Exercise Prescription Guidelines, phase 4 cardiac participants should exercise at a similar intensity level to that recommended for healthy adults to gain maximum benefits.⁴ To date, however, there has been a paucity of research to support or question these guidelines. This led to this pilot study, which aimed to compare the exercise intensity levels and ratings of perceived exertion of cardiac and non-cardiac participants during a phase 4 CR exercise class.