Classical music in cardiac prevention and rehabilitation

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the current service evaluation was to assess whether classical music positively impacts upon exercise intensity in patients undergoing a cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programme. Design: A crossover study design was used, in which patients were exposed to both classical music and no music over 2 consecutive weeks, determined through a random order. Setting: This took place in cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation exercise sessions at two Imperial College NHS Healthcare sites. Patients: The sample consisted of 30 cardiac rehabilitation patients undergoing secondary prevention. Main outcome measures: Comparison of heart rate (average and peak) and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) recorded in each patient under both music and non-music conditions. Results: Average heart rate, Borg RPE, and energy expenditure showed minimal differences between exercise modes. However, peak heart rate increased on average by 7 beats per minute when comparing exercising under classical to no music. Conclusions: The study found that classical music significantly increased an individual's peak heart rate during a cardiac exercise session, thereby increasing physical activity intensity.