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Cardiac Rehab and Exercise with Alis
Alis, a former colleague of Mauro’s and PhD candidate, is our guest in this episode. Alis works in direct programs regarding heart rehab and is here to discuss how cardiac events affect your ability to exercise. She’ll also explain how to rehabilitate effectively.
Alis started in fitness because her father had COPD. She became interested in how fitness and exercise can help people with chronic conditions, and went on to study fitness and health out of high school. Then, she did a placement in cardiac rehab at Toronto Rehab. From there, Alis went on to do her master’s training at UBC before her current pursual of a PhD at Toronto Rehab. Her work and studies have all been around the field of cardio oncology, studying how breast cancer treatment affects the heart and how cardiac rehab can be of great benefit in these situations.
During her studies, Alis learned that the referral process in the healthcare system doesn’t allow for cancer survivors to access cardiac rehab. Now, Alis is basing her research on how to support these women in the long term. Another focus for her is showing patients that have cardiac issues that they can do HIT training; they don’t have to be scared of activity or pushing themselves too hard.
Book mentioned by Alis, written by Dr. Martin Gibala
Alis also teaches, and has found a disconnect between what students are taught and what the reality of cardiac problems are. Heart issues can be extremely nuanced and not just black and white. There is a real need for practical, case study-based learning in schools. Training and health are an individual experience and needs to be tailored. You need to match your workouts to what you enjoy, need, and have the time for.
Toronto Rehab has put an emphasis on patient education. You can’t enact a plan without understanding how it benefits you, beyond just the physical. Alis is a strong believer in in long term fitness plans for those with cardiac issues. The program she is involved with currently has no graduation date for patients - some of them have been in the program for 25 years. It proves that it is possible to maintain and improve your fitness level even after a cardiac event.
For those looking to start a fitness journey after a cardiac event, Alis shares some tips. It’s been shown that burning 1000 calories a week is the most effective starting place, so exercising for 30 minutes, 3 times a week works. However, it is a process. Make small changes at first and don’t forget to look at the whole picture. Sleep, nutrition, and stress management cannot be overlooked. Alis is also learning more about the physiology of breathing and how breath work can affect the way you move and experience fitness.
To end today’s episode, Alis offers some final advice for people beginning their health journey. It is a process, so don’t be discouraged. Make a plan, write it out, and create goals. Reflect on what did and didn’t work well to inform your plan.
Learn more: https://www.cardiaccollege.ca