Exercise prescription for the cardiac patient: an update.

Exercise prescription for patients after myocardial infarction and for those after coronary artery bypass grafting is contrasted with prescription for healthy adults. Calculation of target training heart rate and the rating of perceived exertion scale for the cardiac patient are examined. The authors discuss in detail exercise prescription for the cardiac patient during in-patient, outpatient, and community-based programs. A well-rounded approach including flexibility, strength, and aerobic components is emphasized.