Cardiac Rehabilitation in Athens, GA

Cardiac Rehab. Phase I: In-Hospital Education & Recovery

Location: St. Mary’s Hospital, 1230 Baxter St., Athens, GA

Phase I begins while you are still in the hospital. This stage focuses on helping you understand your condition and preparing you for recovery after discharge.

You’ll receive education on:

• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack
• Understanding risk factors for heart disease
• Managing high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Smoking cessation support
• Safe cardiovascular exercise
• Medication education and adherence tips
• Managing angina (chest pain)
• Heart failure education and symptom management
• Heart-healthy nutrition

This phase lays the foundation for a safer, more confident recovery at home.

Phase II: Supervised Cardiac Rehabilitation Program

Location: St. Mary’s Hospital, 2nd Floor Cardiac Rehab Gym
Phone: (706) 389-2915

Phase II is a structured, 12-week program designed for patients recovering from:

• Heart attack
• Heart surgery
• Angioplasty or coronary stenting
• Valve repair or replacement
• Heart transplant
• Other cardiovascular conditions

Patients attend sessions three times per week, where they participate in carefully guided exercise tailored to their individual needs.

What to Expect in Phase II

• Continuous monitoring of heart rate and rhythm using wireless technology
• Personalized exercise plans to rebuild strength safely
• Progress tracking and communication with your physician
• Education on lifestyle changes to reduce future risk

Our goal is to help you safely return to daily activities while improving your heart health and confidence.

Insurance Note: Phase II cardiac rehab is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. A physician referral is required.

Learn More about Interventional Cardiology | Explore Cardiac and Vascular Services

Phase III:  Lifelong Maintenance & Wellness

Location: St. Mary’s Wellness Center | 2470 Daniells Bridge Road, Athens, GA (Inside The Exchange)
Phone: (706) 389-3355

Phase III is designed for patients who have completed Phase II or are ready to maintain their progress long-term. This phase focuses on independent exercise with continued professional support.

Program Highlights:

• Ongoing exercise programs tailored to your goals
• Supervision by trained staff for safety and guidance
• Continued education on heart-healthy living
• Support for stress management and lifestyle changes
• Available Equipment Includes:
• Treadmills and stationary bikes
• Elliptical trainers and rowing machines
• Free weights and strength training equipment
• Stair-steppers and recumbent steppers
• Arm ergometers

Many patients find that Phase III becomes an important part of their routine, providing both physical benefits and a supportive community.

To discover ways to keep your heart healthy, learn more about our Heart Success program.