Cardiac Rehab Success Story
Retired international teacher enjoys a new lease of life after taking part in 16-week cardiac rehabilitation programme.
A community cardiac rehabilitation programme delivered by Lincs Inspire is helping local people safely rebuild their fitness, confidence and independence following heart problems.
For retired international teacher Philip Sperinck, 67, taking part in the Phase 4 Cardiac Rehabilitation programme at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre has made a significant difference to his everyday life.
Following a period of treatment for a heart condition, Philip was referred to the community-based programme, where he began gradually reintroducing exercise in a safe and controlled environment.
Delivered by BACPR (British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation) qualified instructors, the programme combines circuits-based exercise and gym activity, with sessions individually tailored to each participant’s condition and clinical recommendations.
When Philip first joined, even the cardio exercises proved challenging. “The first week was really difficult. I was doing one cardio station to one resistance station, slowing and stopping. Now I’m doing three cardio exercises to one resistance exercise and I’m really moving – it’s made a big difference.” Philip said.
The programme provides participants with ongoing support and encouragement as they progress, alongside regular health monitoring and individually tailored exercise plans.
For Philip, the benefits have extended beyond the exercise itself. He has enjoyed becoming part of the group and has formed friendships with fellow participants.
“They tailor the exercises to you. They push you a little bit, but not too much. I enjoy the friendship within the group. Everyone’s in a similar position and we support each other.” Philip added.
Philip has also noticed a positive difference in his everyday activity levels. “I still need to do a lot more, but it’s given me the motivation to keep improving. I’m walking a lot more – I get a little bit out of breath if I go too far – but it’s much better than what it was.”
He praised the support he received from the hospital cardiac rehabilitation team before progressing onto the Lincs Inspire programme, as well as instructors David Soames and Wayne Pendergast for their approach to supporting participants.
“It’s made a big difference. The support from both the hospital nurses (Phase 3) and the instructors at Lincs Inspire (Phase 4) has been fantastic”.
Having completed the 16-week programme, Philip is now planning to continue exercising through a Lincs Inspire leisure membership, alongside his wife, and hopes to gradually return to activities including swimming and indoor bowls.
Wellbeing Fayre
As part of sharing his success story, Philip has been invited to nominate a charity to receive proceeds from the annual Lincs Inspire Wellbeing Fayre
Philip has chosen to nominate local campaign Josephine (Jo) Chatterton’s fundraiser for Cardiac Risk in the Young, to bring a cardiac screening event for young people to the area in 2027.
The campaign is led by Monica Chatterton MBE, whose daughter Jo Chatterton, died suddenly aged 24 in 1999 due to an undiagnosed heart condition.
The Lincs Inspire Wellbeing Fayre will take place on Sunday 4 October, 10am to 2pm at Grimsby Health & Wellbeing Centre.
The free community event will bring together local organisations, activities and services supporting healthier lifestyles and improved wellbeing, with taster sessions, health and wellbeing activities, information stands and opportunities to meet local support services.
