Connecting through exercise
The Cardiac Rehabilitation team at Bothwell Regional Health Center has launched a community exercise program that is open to adults of all ages. The purpose behind the program is to educate people on the importance of exercise, provide a safe place to exercise and offer participants a way to connect with others.
Melanie Davis, Cardiac Rehab supervisor, said the community exercise program will be a great opportunity for people to socialize with others and feel safe while exercising.
“We have great medical staff here,” Davis said. “They are highly trained and prepared to approach any medical condition. We also have a defibrillator in the facility in case of emergencies.”
Cardiac Rehab is a four-phase medically supervised exercise therapy program designed to help people with heart disease return to a productive life and improve their health through physical activity provided by trained staff. After traumatic health events such as a heart attack or heart surgery, cardiac rehab is typically prescribed by a doctor to regain strength.
Last May, the Bothwell Foundation donated $20,000 worth of exercise equipment to the department that included two arm bikes, two recumbent cross trainers and two treadmills. There is also a rowing machine, upright bikes and NuSteps for use.
Community members do not have to be diagnosed with heart disease to join the program. For just $35 a month per individual, people can participate in the community exercise program. Spouses may join for $25 per month. The hours are 6 am to noon and 12:30 to 4 pm.
“This program and our team can offer you exercise education and a secure environment to exercise in,” Davis said. “The goal is not to compete with local gyms, but rather encourage individuals who are less likely to attend a larger gym. It is truly like a small community that can offer ‘social therapy’ in addition to physical activity.”
To sign up, call Cardiac Rehabilitation at 660-827-9556. Staff will call those who are interested to help them create an account in the Bothwell system. Participants will need medical clearance from their physician and a current EKG. Due to space limitations, membership may be limited.
