The Heidelberg rehabilitation model usually commences between the 6th and 12th week after infarction. After a thorough initial examination (ergometer/ ECG after work), the patients are assigned to the therapy groups: gymnastics, swimming, walking/running, and ergometric training. The training groups are divided into those for patients whose exercise tolerance is less than 1 watt per kilogram of bodyweight, and those for patients who can tolerate at least the stated level of exercise stress.

The rehabilitation programme consists of:
respiratory, relaxation, co-ordination and stamina training, group discussions, perception training and games. Pulse monitoring is carried out repeatedly before, during and after exercise.

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