Outcomes evaluation is a critical component in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to examine factors who predict long-term effects of improved peak oxygen uptake one year after participating in cardiac rehabilitation.

Secondary to evaluate the short and long-term outcome of a 12-week outpatient cardiac rehabilitation program.

A prospective cohort study including all cardiac patients referred for outpatient cardiac rehabilitation in a primary care clinic in Oslo. The main efficacy variable is the changes in exercise capacity (VO2peak) as a primary prognostic measure of successful rehabilitation. HRQoL are measured by self-report using the COOP/WONCA questionnaire and SF-36.

Inclusion Criteria:

• stable coronary heart disease
• valvular surgery
• refered to high-intensity exercise training from a cardiologist

Exclusion Criteria:

• acute myocardial infarction within four week
• serious rhythm disturbances
• unstable angina pectoris
• known significant comorbidity
• symptomatic peripheral vascular disease
• obstructive pulmonary disease with forced expiratory vital capacity < 60% of predicted
• left ventricular ejection fraction < 40%