No, we're not talking about “fit”, as in being active and healthy, but FITT, the four-point principle around exercise that refers to frequency, intensity, time and type. The FITT principle is applied to many rehabilitation programs, including cardiac recovery.
The FITT Principle: Frequency
“In terms of frequency you want to be active most preferably every day of the week,” says Min Naruki-van Velzen, a health and lifestyle consultant and HealthChoicesFirst.com partner.
Following any form of fitness training in a cardiac recovery program, the body needs to replenish its energy consumed by the exercise. You will work with your cardiac recovery team to find the right balance between challenging your body and allowing enough time in between workouts for the body to rest.
The FITT Principle: Intensity
The "I" in the FITT Principle refers to intensity - how much effort you should expend during a workout. If you are in a cardiac recovery program, it's important to do exercises that burn energy and work your heart, but it's essential to prevent injury by determining your target heart rate and staying inside that zone.
“Intensity is really determined by the type of heart event that you had and what your physical capabilities are at that time,” says Naruki-van Velzen. “You'll be given direction on that by the exercise specialist in the cardiac rehab program.”
Some lower intensity exercises such as walking may be done for longer periods of time, while higher intensity workouts such as running won't require as much time to burn calories.
The FITT Principle: Time
“When it comes to time we like to see people physically active for at least 30 minutes a day, probably more, especially if you're trying to manage your weight,” says Naruki-van Velzen.
The FITT Principle: Type
“In terms of type, it really doesn't matter too much - choose what works best for you. Perhaps you like to exercise outdoors with walking, and that would be completely fine. On the other hand, if you don't like to be outside when it's raining, indoor exercise at the gym, or yoga, or Pilates, that type of activity might be fine for you as well.”
The best way to choose the right cardiac recovery exercise for you is to talk to your general practitioner or your cardiologist about being referred to a local cardiac recovery program. They can also provide you with more information on the FITT Principle and how it may benefit you during the cardiac recovery process.
Find out how activity, nutrition and weight loss all play a role in cardiac rehab.
Cardiac recovery workouts; bicep curl
Cardiac recovery workouts: squat exercises
Cardiac recovery workouts: core exercises