David was referred to us following a triple Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG). He was recovering post-surgery and dealing with a recent diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes. Our programme focussed on optimising David’s recovery and long-term improvement of his Cardiovascular and Metabolic disease.

Our Action Plan

Our initial focus for David was to ensure a swift and effective recovery from his open-heart surgery. David began his programme seven weeks post-surgery, once he was medically approved to being rehabilitation. He was still in some discomfort and precautions were in place to ensure healing of the sternum. Because of this, the first phase of our work together was focussed on improving energy levels, increasing mobility post-surgery and establishing positive lifestyle changes to prevent any further need for intervention.

At approximately 12 weeks post-surgery we were able to begin resistance training with David and over the subsequent weeks his strength and function improved as he consistently progressed using bodyweight and resistance band exercises. As part of David’s goal setting, we discussed that his weight was within normal ranges, however, his body fat was slightly high and his muscle mass low, therefore resistance training was prioritised to address this.

David’s Results

David recovered exceptionally well from his surgery and was able to consistently achieve over 7500 steps per day by week four of the programme. By consistently completing two sessions per week, at 12 weeks David was able to comfortably manage resistance training without any symptoms following surgery and complete a full surgical recovery.

The assessment results showed an increase of 0.5 kg in muscle mass and a subsequent reduction in body fat, from 20.3% to 18.2%. This is particularly impressive due to only completing resistance training for the final six weeks of his first programme, and testament to David’s hard work and commitment to recovery. These results also translated to a progression in speed reached during the cardiopulmonary exercise test.

David’s first programme post-surgery has set excellent foundations to continue improving his health and lifestyle habits to ensure there is minimal risk from cardiovascular disease in the future. He has avoided the need for further intervention and we are excited to help him continue to make progress with new and more aspirational health goals.