On this page
About our exercise programmes
Our cardiac rehabilitation exercise videos are designed to be used in the comfort of your own home. You should only use them if you have received a cardiac rehabilitation assessment and started or completed a programme.There are 6 exercise programmes. You should start with the seated exercise programme until you feel comfortable to progress to the next level. The higher the level, the more intense the exercise is.
We recommend watching our ‘Introduction to cardiac rehab at home’ video before watching the exercise programmes.
Read our safety guide
Before you begin exercising, please read our 'My personal trainer' safety guide. You should also speak to your doctor or specialist before using our videos.
An introduction to cardiac rehab at home
Dr Mike Knapton, BHF's Associate Medical Director, and exercise instructor Lesley Simpson introduce you to cardiac rehab at home.
Tips for enjoying exercise safely
Exercise is good for your physical heath. It can also lift your mood and help you sleep better. But we understand that you might feel worried about being physically active. See the tips below to help you enjoy exercise safely.Before you start exercising
- wear loose, comfortable clothes
- have a glass of water nearby so you can drink during the session
- make sure the room is a comfortable temperature and open a window if needed.
While you’re exercising
- if you start to feel breathless, slow down your movements and slowly walk on the spot, or tap your feet
- you should stop exercising and contact your GP or cardiac specialist if: you have a high temperature, or you feel unwell, you have pain in your chest, or your heartbeat feels irregular.
Understanding cardiac rehabilitation
Order our free booklet on cardiac rehabilitation. It can help you and your loved ones understand what happens during cardiac rehab and how to look after your heart.
Seated exercise programmes
This programme is designed to help individuals safely build their fitness, strength, and confidence in the comfort of their own homes. It's particularly beneficial for those who find standing exercises challenging or prefer a lower intensity approach.
Watch the seated exercise programme
Level 1 exercise programme
This Level 1 workout video (assisted standing programme) is only for people who have already had a cardiac rehab assessment.
Level 2 exercise programme
This Level 2 workout is only for people who have already had a cardiac rehab assessment.
Level 3 exercise programme
This Level 3 workout is only for people who have already had a cardiac rehab assessment.
Watch the Level 3 video
Level 4 exercise programme
This Level 4 workout is only for people who have already had a cardiac rehab assessment.
Level 5 exercise programme
The Level 5 workout is designed for those who have progressed to a more advanced stage of cardiac rehab, and can handle a higher intensity of exercise.
Watch the Level 5 video
Join our 8-week cardiac rehab email programme
Every week, we’ll send you a free email with tips and information to support your recovery. Our emails cover:
- getting used to medication
- support for the emotional ups and downs after a heart event
- information about returning to work, driving, sex and relationships
- ideas for getting active and gradually returning to the things you love.
Find the perfect exercise level
Our RPE scale helps you measure how hard you’re working during exercise. We recommend understanding the RPE scale before you start, to help find the right level of activity for you.
Speak to a cardiac nurse
If you have any questions or concerns about exercising with a heart or circulatory condition, our cardiac nurses can help. You can contact them for free on our Heart Helpline.
