Exercise Specialist Program

Exercise Specialists at Adirondack Health

Exercise is medicine and the main component to all our programs.

Our exercise physiologists offer Fit for Life, Cardiac Rehabilitation, Bone Builders, Peripheral Artery Disease Program, Oncology Exercise Program and Post Fit for Life. Each exercise program is tailored to the individuals medical diagnose and limitations.

Exercise training often starts in a group setting where your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation are monitored during physical activity. You will work with an exercise physiologist and learn how to evaluate your exercise intensity based on your personal diagnosis and physical limitations. Strength training, flexibility and balance are incorporated based on specific needs. Exercise programs are re-evaluated periodically to adjust to advances in ability. Click below for further information on programs provided at all of our facilities.

Bone Builders Program

The Bone Builders program is designed to improve strength and quality of life for those diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are progressive diseases that result in the progressive decrease of bone density.  Without intervention, bones have the potential to become weak and can break more easily.  One of the best methods for maintaining or improving bone density is through a safely designed strength training program.

Bone Builders is a 12-week class developed by exercise physiologists to specifically improve balance, muscle and bone strength and reduce the risk of injury due to osteoporosis.

Participants will learn about osteoporosis, nutrition and activities to enhance quality of life through improved strength.

The program is held twice per week for 60 minutes and the fee is $50 per month; scholarships are available.

For more information contact:
Andrea Chamberlain, Fit for Life Coordinator
Phone: 518-897-2271 Fax: 518-897-2880
Email: achamberlain@adirondackhealth.org

Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac Rehabilitation and Peripheral Artery Disease Program-supervised program that focuses on Exercise Training, Education, and Lifestyle Management.

Those who benefit from Cardiac Rehabilitation include those with a history of:
Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG)
Current stable angina pectoris
Heart valve repair or replacement
Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)/ or coronary stenting 
Heart or heart-lung transplant
Heart Failure and those with ventricular assist devices (CHF)

Cardiac Rehabilitation is a service that includes:
Prescribed exercise to improve cardiovascular fitness without exceeding safe limits.
Education about heart disease along with counseling on ways to stabilize or reverse heart disease by improving risk factors.
Reduction/Cessation of Smoking
Lowering Cholesterol
Controlling High Blood Pressure
Weight Loss/Control
Improve/Manage Diabetes
Increasing Physical Activity
Encourage Healthy Eating Habits
Improve Psychological Well Being

Heart disease is a lifelong condition that needs ongoing management. To start this journey, it will require a referral from your family physician or specialists. Ask for a referral for cardiac rehabilitation and your cardiac rehab team will format a program based on your current health history and goals. Fax referral to 518-897-2880 or call 518-897-2483.

Fit for Life

Fit for Life is a medically supervised exercise program that provides safe exercise, support and education to individuals with a desire to improve their overall quality of life through exercise.

Our exercise physiologists work closely with your physician through regular communication to ensure you receive consistent, quality care throughout the program.

Medical conditions managed though Fit for Life:
High Blood Pressure
High Cholesterol
Diabetes
Obesity
Inactivity
Heart Disease & Minor Intervention Recovery
Chronic Obstruction Pulmonary Disease
Cancer Related Fatigue Syndrome

Program Highlights
Classes are offered in Saranac Lake, Lake Placid and Tupper Lake. Fit for Life meets two times per week for an hour each session.

Exercise
Exercise is at the core of the sessions. This includes aerobic exercises such as riding a stationary bike, walking on a treadmill or using an arm bike. Stretching exercises and strength training are used as well to increase mobility and improve daily living activities.

Education
Understanding your condition provides the pathway to making changes. Small changes made consistently over time make a difference. Whether it’s improving strength, nutrition or mobility, our staff personalizes learning based on a person’s specific needs.

Cost
The program is billed on a monthly basis. If an insurance company provides a wellness stipend, there many be reimbursement for the fees. For those who qualify, a scholarship program is available if needed.

A physician referral and medical clearance are needed to join the program. Call the Fit for Life office for assistance in obtaining referral.

For more information contact:
Andrea Chamberlain, Fit for Life Coordinator
Phone: 518-897-2271 Fax: 518-897-2880
Email: achamberlain@adirondackhealth.org

Oncology Exercise Program-Empowering Patients& Survivors

Through movement, the Oncology Exercise Program at Adirondack Health empowers cancer patients and survivors to improve their quality of life at their current stage of treatment or recovery.

Exercise
Scientific research has proven exercise is safe and beneficial for individuals during and after cancer treatment. Benefits include:

Reduced fatigue and increased energy levels
Strengthened immune system and decreased risk of infection
Decreased anxiety and depression
Reduction of pain and an increased pain tolerance
Improved quality of life
Enhanced self-image and sense of control
Increased muscular strength and endurance
Increased bone strength (reduced risk of osteoporosis)
Greater endurance for daily activities

Overview
The exercise program is based on each individual’s health history, current treatment status and needs with the goal of providing a safe and effective experience.

Program
When: Twice per week.
Cost: $50 month (scholarships available)

For more information contact or to register contact:
Andrea Chamberlain, Fit for Life Coordinator
Phone: 518-897-2271 Fax: 518-897-2880
Email: achamberlain@adirondackhealth.org