The effect of a stay in a cardiac thermal station on the physical activity of patients with cardiovascular diseases: Analysis of subjective and objective indicators

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the impact of a stay in a thermal station, as part of stage II of cardiac rehabilitation, on the actual and declared levels of physical activity of patients with cardiovascular disease. Materials and Methods: The study consisted of two components: subjective measurement (IPAQ Short questionnaire) and objective measurement (ActiGraph). The study used two survey instruments: the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the ActiGraph instrument. The IPAQ questionnaire was administered twice: in the first days of the thermal station stay and concerned physical activity undertaken during the week preceding the study and during the last week of the rehabilitation camp. The ActiGraph was worn by patients for one week during the third week of their stay. We compared the level of physical activity declared by patients before and after their three-week stay at the thermal station, and contrasted IPAQ scores with objective accelerometer data (ActiGraph). Results: The results indicated an increase in the physical activity declared on the IPAQ during the thermal station stay, particularly in moderate-intensity activity. Accelerometer data confirms the presence of real physical activity during the study period but indicates a lower level than declared in the IPAQ. Conclusions: The results of the study show that a stay at a thermal station promotes a change in lifestyle to a more active one and can help improve physical activity habits in cardiac patients.