Cardio-Rehab Drop out

Posted By Bob Veveka on October 30, 1998 at 09:21:36:







I am a cardio-rehab drop out!  Had bypass 8 weeks ago, and started cardio rehab last week.  After one day in the program, I determined that it was not for me, and my doc agreed.  The problem is I am in excellent physical shape, age 52, didn't have a heart attack, and exercise regularly.  I stopped smoking 8 weeks ago on my own.  I don't need the group support, and need to work much harder to get to my target heart rate. I am a fairly disciplined person, and the bypass certainly raise the flag for me. I do need to make changes in my life however.  I need to lose 30-40 pounds, and reduce my cholestrol from 203 to around 160 (hopefully w/o medication.  My LDL is about 115.)
My insurance pays for cario/rehab program, but I couldn't see them paying for the program I was in, where I feel I was getting little benefit or motivation.  I also feel that I need to be enthusiastic about a program as well.  
Is there any type of cardio rehab program available that is tailored to the individual?  Can a primary care physician develop a cario-rehab program, and contract for outside services? Is there any type of immersion program (e.g. Duke/Pritikin) that would qualify for cardio rehab?