Pulmonary Exercise Program (PEP) provides participants with an opportunity to maintain the physical fitness levels that were achieved during their active pulmonary rehabilitation program. The goal of the PEP is for participants to increase their independence during physical activity.

PEP members will be able to:

• Exercise in a supportive group setting
• Work to maintain fitness levels that lead to improved endurance and reduced shortness of breath
• Get to know others who have similar conditions and share the same goals
• Work to remain active through structured exercise to improve quality of life

PEP sessions are scheduled three times a week at Hospital for Special Care’s (HSC) Fitness Center. Participants are under the supervision of a HSC staff member two days a week. Blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation are monitored during these sessions. On the third day, participants work out independently in HSC’s Fitness Center. Members are responsible for recording that day’s assigned exercise program.

PEP provides participants the ability to incorporate both cardiovascular exercise and resistance training into their exercise programs. Treadmills, stationary bicycles, elliptical trainers and strength training equipment are all available at HSC’s Fitness Center.

The length of PEP is four months. The cost is $200 and includes the two, one-hour group exercise sessions and the single, one-hour independent session each week. Individuals who have completed PEP are welcome to continue their involvement by signing up for a second PEP program, or to become a full member of the Aquatic and Fitness Center and make their fitness a life-long commitment!

For more information about PEP, please contact Elyse at (860) 832-6228. You may also email info@hfsc.org for more information.