Cardiac Rehabiliation

Second Chance is a Cardiac (heart) and Exercise Program offered by Matagorda Regional Medical Center. If you have an existing heart condition this is an opportunity for you to take control of your life and significantly improve how you feel every day. A special exercise program will be designed to fit your individual needs and capabilities. You will rotate among various exercise stations that include treadmill, bike, and arm and leg resistance exercises. Your physician will determine the proper exercise level for you at each of these stations.

Your heart and blood pressure will be monitored and your exercise supervised by Licensed personnel. Since your personal program will be prescribed according to your ability, levels will be increased as tolerated. Remember your heart is a muscle, and like any muscle it responds to exercise and becomes stronger.

Included with the Exercise Program is a dietary consultation given by a Registered Dietitian. Our goal is to supply you with the proper tools for a heart-healthy program that can effectively help you control cholesterol levels in the blood supply.

One-hour sessions are held Monday through Friday in the Cardiac Rehab Exercise Room at Matagorda Regional Medical Center.

As a graduate of the Second Chance Exercise Program you will be eligible to use the exercise equipment unsupervised at your own convenience (with your physician's okay). This will help you finish making the changes in your lifestyle that you have already started and can truly improve your quality of life.

To get started, ask your doctor about whether you might benefit from this program. You must have your physician's permission and a written order to enter and participate in the exercise program. It will also be necessary to have an exercise electrocardiogram to ensure your ability to participate. In many instances, your insurance will pay most of the cost of the program fee. If you are interested or have questions, call the Cardio-Pulmonary Department at (979) 241-5950.