Overview

Main objective: To assess the efficacy of a phase III cardiac rehabilitation program (CRP), based on counseling in the maintenance of physical exercise (time of physical exercise per week) for patients with myocardial ischemia (MI), once the supervised physical exercise program of phase II of CRP is completed.

Secondary objectives: To assess the efficacy of a phase III program of CRP based on counseling in the maintenance of physical exercise for the patient with MI in: 1) the energy expenditure per week, 2) body mass index and abdominal perimeter, 3) control of cardiovascular risk factors (smoking, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus), 4) quality of life related to health, 5) assess the adherence to cardiac pharmacological treatment.

Method: Randomized clinical trial in conglomerates, open and controlled. The intervention group will carry out phase III of CRP based on counseling in the maintenance of physical exercise. The control group will receive the usual care. The main outcome will be the physical exercise time per week after finish the supervised physical exercise program of phase II of CRP and at 6 and 12 month later according to the 7-day Physical Activity Recall.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients diagnosed with myocardial ischemia, angina pectoris, other specific forms of chronic ischemic heart disease or unspecified ischemic heart disease.
• Patients who have completed the supervised physical exercise program of phase II of the CRP.
• Absence of cognitive deficit (Pfeiffer test: 0-2 mistakes).
• Sufficient functional capacity to follow the CRP (Barthel index >60)
• Residence in catchment area of Bages and Moians.
• Providing signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Symptoms of right heart failure producing pulmonary hypertension.
• Dyspnea caused by severe pulmonary pathology.
• Additional comorbidities affecting the prognosis of cardiac disease.
• Major comorbidities or limitations that could interfere with the exercise training programme.