Heart Wise Exercise programs are intended not only for individuals living with cardiovascular disease who have been provided exercise guidelines by a health care practitioner,  but also those at risk and their family members or participants of any age and physical condition who are interested or concerned about their health. 

Many who have a particular chronic health issue, especially in older populations, also have other chronic health issues. 

In response to requests by several groups working with non-cardiac conditions, Heart Wise Exercise formally adapted its criteria to work with those with chronic conditions beyond cardiovascular. With the aging population in Canada, there is a need for individuals who are at risk to get involved in safe, appropriate, and easily accessible exercise classes and programs.