HEALTH researchers are on the hunt to find the most effective method of exercise for coronary heart disease patients.
Fiona Stanley Hospital’s (FSH) head of exercise physiology Andrew Maiorana said the team would use what they find to encourage coronary patients to stay active.
“Exercise is really good for heart disease,” he said.
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READ NOW“If we can determine the best way to maintain good overall health and fitness, then we can encourage our cardiac patients to get moving.”
Physiotherapist and Curtin University PhD student Anna Scheer is leading pool-based exercise sessions.
“We are comparing pool-based exercise, gym exercise and participants continuing their usual activity to see if there are any changes with fitness, strength, body composition, artery health, blood test results and brain blood flow,” she said.
Researchers are looking for more patients over the age of 18 to take part in the study.
They want people who have previously had heart issues – including coronary heart disease – and are willing to commit to a 12-week program.
Riverton resident Herbert Auchli, 77, recently joined the study following a heart scare almost three years ago.
“Research is an important part of our society,” he said.
“I am doing something for the community by doing something for myself and am really enjoying the program so far.”
The study is a collaboration between FSH, Curtin University, The University of Western Australia and Royal Perth Hospital.
For full details email anna.scheer@postgrad.curtin.edu.au or phone 0434 129 453.
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