Your home program is the transitional phase of cardiac rehab after you leave the hospital. This program includes your care and recovery at home. The focus is on taking care of your incisions if you had surgery and increasing your activity. Your exercise program is usually low-intensity to prepare you for a more moderate- to high-intensity program in the next phase of rehab (phase II).

For your home program, exercise moves from activities of daily life to regular exercise. You will most likely walk or ride a stationary bike 3 to 5 times a week for 5 to 40 minutes each time, based on your condition.

The goal of your home program is to:

• Take care of yourself after leaving the hospital.
• Get stronger.
• Make a smooth transition from hospital to home.

It is important to follow your discharge instructions to avoid complications after surgery and to prepare yourself for a more active lifestyle. Your home program will vary in length depending on your medical history and your current condition.