APA Dictionary of Psychology

an individualized program designed to improve cardiovascular fitness in a person with a heart condition (e.g., angina, coronary artery disease) or who has had a heart-related procedure (e.g., valve replacement, pacemaker implantation). Depending on a patient’s needs, cardiac rehabilitation may include aerobic exercise, weight training, smoking cessation, weight management, and dietary recommendations (e.g., decrease sodium consumption, limit alcohol intake). Programs that address stress, depression, anxiety, anger, and other psychological factors may also be part of cardiac rehabilitation and have been associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes.