Cardiac Rehabilitation and Community Fitness

McCready Memorial Hospital in Crisfield offers Somerset County residents a low-cost option for cardiac rehabilitation – and those simply looking for a friendly place to exercise.

McCready’s operates an “open door” fitness center with the same equipment available in most upscale gyms and sports clubs.

A sunny, state-of-the-art gym with a relaxing water view features an elliptical machine, fixed and free weights, recumbent and exercise bicycles. Treadmill enthusiasts can look out on scenic Daugherty Creek Canal and watch boats and waterfowl come and go.

The gym is reserved each Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 6:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. for cardiac rehabilitation patients who exercise under the supervision of Dianna Ford, a trained technician.

Ms. Ford provides routine blood pressure and heart rate monitoring for cardiac rehab participants during each workout session.

The program costs $25 per month (some insurance plans cover it). A physician prescription (recommendation) is required.

Participants in the hospital's "adult fitness" program are invited to use the McCready gym from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekend days, and Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. until 8 p.m.

The monthly fee is just $10 – roughly the price of a movie ticket. A signed physician’s permission also is required to join.

Ms. Ford is trained to assist in designing a customized exercise routine. Once orientation is completed, participants may use the gym unsupervised during the posted hours the facility is open

Signing up is easy.

Contact Ms. Ford between 6:30 and 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday by calling (410) 968-3001 (Ext. 3315).

Ms. Ford can provide application forms that must be completed with help from a family physician. Once cleared by a doctor, applicants should schedule an appointment to meet at the gym and complete the registration process.

All participants receive instruction on how to use the machines .