Having had a heart attack and a stroke I decided to do the sensible thing and join the local gym.
Went to local gym yesterday. Registered. I was then told that I would need a GP referral and that I would then be seen by their cardiac specialise.
Called my surgery today to ask if there was a form I could fill out that a GP could sign off. Oh noes you need to see the doctor.
Appointment was made for 10.30.
Attended consultation and was told that he would not refer me until I had done a cardiac rehabilitation course some 10 miles away. I was also informed that bits of me are not working properly.
Called the re-hab centre to be told that I needed a GP referal to attend the course.
If I didn't want to get sodding fit I would be losing the will to live right now. 
Problee being a bit simplistic 'ere like, not 'ever avin' 'ad me 'pump' throwin' a wibbly wobbly like, but can't you just go and join the gym and pace yerself like type thing ey, like wot I does most of the time...unless I'm angry?
When I joined up in March, the reception peoples weren't the least bit interested in my past and current health problems. All they said was, if you're not too sure, go and see yer quack, so I didn't bother as I'm a firm believer in when your time is up,and the page turns and it has your name on it, the BIG black bus will arrive, bang on time. 
I'm still living so it seems. 
After an attack your body can be affected in different ways.
With me, thay told me to do lots of walking (no lifting) but this means that you lose upper body strength. When I went to the gym thay gave me a programme including some weight work but any of those lifting above your machines were verboten.
If you're having to change your diet, lifestyle etc then the gym becomes a very important factor and you can do yourself a lotta of damage if you do the wrong things. My problem was the lack of strength (which you slowly get back, 3-4 months) but the statins gave me muscle fatigue and it is bloody hard work even when you start of with half of what you could previously have done.
Also if you are taking beta-block and/or ace inhibitors, then your blood pressure and heart beat are being kept low chemically so going mad on the treadmill or stepper can show low numbers when your is actually under stress.
My problem was inherited, so a "better, healthier lifestyle" wouldn't have prevented it, but may have delayed it
