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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

A Novel Digital Platform for a Monitored Home-based Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Published on: April 19, 2019
The effect of music on mood, motivation, and exercise among patients in a cardiac rehabilitation program: A pilot
Lindsay Bowles1, Jami Curtis2, Claire Davies2
1Ambulatory Pathway Baptist Health, Lexington, Kentucky.
Aim:
Exploring the effect of music on mood, motivation, and exercise performance among patients with phase III cardiac rehabilitation.
Background:
Cardiac rehabilitation programs address risk factors associated with heart health following acute heart issues or cardiac surgery. In phase III, patients are involved in cardiac health maintenance. Exercise is a major component. Motivating patients to engage in exercise and remain in the program has been problematic. Evidence suggests that music could enhance patient involvement in exercise activities.
Method:
A quasi-experimental design was used in this pilot study. A convenience sample of 17 phase III cardiac rehabilitation patients participated. Data were collected on: mood, motivation, and exercise. Participants responded to the Brief Mood Introspection Scale, a 5-point visual analog scale, and an investigator-designed questionnaire on motivation. Treadmill data (speed, distance, and time) were also collected.
Results:
At baseline participants scored high on mood, motivation to exercise, and fondness for music. Little change occurred over the 9 week period. Participants in this study walked further, on average, than individuals of the same age.
Conclusion:
Music appears to maintain patients' positive moods, motivate them to exercise and help them to continue rehabilitation efforts. Over time music may encourage patients to walk a further distance.
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