Returning to Pickleball After a Heart Event: Getting Back in the Game
Pickleball has exploded in popularity over the past decade—especially among adults over 50. What started as a niche pastime is now the fastest-growing sport in North America. And it’s easy to see why. With smaller courts, lighter paddles, shorter matches, and a welcoming learning curve, pickleball offers a uniquely accessible way to stay active. But the real magic is its social and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re rallying with friends, joining a local league, or simply chatting between games, pickleball creates connection—a powerful motivator for anyone recovering from a health scare.
That’s why so many people recovering from heart events—whether it’s a stent, bypass surgery, or a diagnosis of heart disease—ask the same question: “When can I play again?” They’re not just looking for exercise. They’re looking to return to something that feels joyful, familiar, and social.
Returning to Running After a Heart Attack: A Week-by-Week Guide
Throughout my 20 years in hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation I have had countless cardiac patients describe being provided blanket advice to limit lifting to 10 pounds and to avoid overly exerting themselves when discharged from hospital. Although well intentioned, this non-specific advice coupled with delays or an inability to access cardiac rehabilitation has consequences as everyday tasks like walking the dog, climbing stairs, or even carrying groceries can suddenly feel uncertain. Many people who were previously active suddenly find themselves sedentary, not because they want to be, but because they’re unsure what kind of activity is appropriate or safe.
Exercising with Atrial Fibrillation: What You Need to Know
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, affecting over 3 million Canadians and more than 5 million people in the U.S. It’s also one of the most misunderstood conditions when it comes to exercise.
At the Online Exercise Clinic, we’re often asked:
“Is it safe to exercise with atrial fibrillation?”
“How much is too much?”
“What if my heart rate is all over the place?”
The Rise of Smart Fitness: How AI and Fitness Trackers Are Changing Exercise for People with Chronic Health Conditions
In recent years, wearable fitness trackers, smartwatches, and artificial intelligence (AI) have evolved from step counters and calorie trackers into powerful health companions—especially for people living with chronic diseases and disabilities. At the Online Exercise Clinic, we’re seeing firsthand how these tools, when paired with expert guidance from a Clinical Exercise Physiologist, can help people exercise safely, confidently, and consistently.
Exercising with Pacemakers and Defibrillators: Safety, Benefits, and What You Need to Know
Learn how to safely and effectively exercise with a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD). Understand device settings, heart rate targets, and medication effects. Expert advice included.
Strength Training with Heart Disease: Safe, Effective, and Backed by Science
Strength training is safe and effective for people with heart disease including after open-heart surgery. Learn safe, evidence-based strength training guidelines.
Bridging the Cardiac Care Gap: How Virtual Exercise Counselling Can Support Heart Health
Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death across Canada, the United States, and Europe. Yet, despite decades of research supporting the role of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in reducing mortality and improving quality of life, access and adherence to these programs remain critically low.
At the Online Exercise Clinic, we believe that virtual, individualized, and evidence-based exercise counselling can help fill a growing gap in cardiac care — one that continues to leave too many people behind.
How Just 150 Minutes a Week Can Transform Your Health: The Science Behind the Guidelines
If you live with a chronic condition or disability, you’ve probably been told that “exercise is good for you.” But how much is enough to make a real difference? The answer might surprise you—it’s just 150 minutes per week. That’s about 22 minutes a day.
Teeing Off Safely: Playing Golf While on Cardiac Medications
For individuals with heart conditions, medications are a crucial component of treatment. These medications can have significant effects on the body, influencing how one should approach physical activities like golf. Here’s a look at some common cardiac medications and their potential impacts on golfing.
Teeing Up for Recovery: Returning to Golf After Open-Heart Surgery
Teeing Up for Recovery: Returning to Golf After Open-Heart Surgery
If you’re an avid golfer who has recently undergone open-heart surgery, the desire to return to the course can be a powerful motivator in your recovery. But how do you get back in the swing of things safely and effectively? In this blog post, we’ll explore the journey of returning to golf after open-heart surgery.