HeartSmart rehabiliation programme at DCU
Tuesday 22 May 2007

Ferdinand von Prondzynski, DCU President, and Bill O'Herlihy with participants of the programme in DCU

Bill O'Herlihy, sports personality of the year, today launched 'HeartSmart', a new cardiac rehabilitation programme, at DCU. HeartSmart is the first and only programme of its kind in Ireland.

DCU collaborates with Beaumont, the Mater and the James Connolly Memorial hospitals to provide a twice-weekly exercise programme to clients recovering from a heart attack or who have heart disease. It is particularly effective for clients who have been discharged from hospital but who would benefit from continued and specialised support during their recovery.

The programme takes place in the new DCU Sports Club which provides a range of options, such as a group exercise session involving aerobic and strength work, exertise in the swimming pool, the fitness equipment and the aerobic studios.

Dr Catherine Woods, director of HeartSmart and lecturer in DCU's School of Health and Human Performance, said, "People who exercise are healthier and happier. A heart attack is a massive 'wake-up call', which involves people re-evaluating their current lifestyle. HeartSmart provides opportunities for individuals with heart disease to take part in an exercise class in a safe, friendly and supportive environment".

Participants of the HeartSmart programme are medically assessed and monitored by their own medical team, although DCU can offer further support for musculoskeletal programme via its ExWell Medical Centre. Counselling and clinical psychology consultations are also available through the AKOS counselling service in DCU's School of Nursing.

Screening during the programme can involve blood press measurement before and after classes, heart rate monitoring during classes and interval rhythm strips. Participants learn how to identify the most compatible exercise regime for their own particular ability and stage in their recovery while also gaining important reassurance from a team of qualified fitness experts. The participant ratio for newcomers is 1:6 but this may increase to 1:20 for advanced exercisers.

The programme also gives students from DCU's School of Health and Human Performance the opportunity to engage with the participants and to develop their skills under the supervision of the HeartSmart team.

HeartSmart participants socialise with each and with their 'coaches' at the end of each class, which provides them with the opportunity to gain mutual support following a cardiac event.

DCU President, Prof Ferdinand von Prondzynski, said, "DCU actively encourages programme such as HeartSmart, which brings together the academic and practical expertise of DCU staff and the needs of the community, while at the same time strengthening the relationship with DCU's partner hospitals. HeartSmart is an initiative that fulfils one of the goals of our Strategic Plan, and I am delighted to see it being launched today".

Classes cost 6 Euros. Prospective participants should contact the DCU Sports Centre at 01 7008881.