Exercise anxiety

Had pm implanted 8/5 I have gained so much weight from doing nothing. The bandage is still on some has fallen off. I really want to get back to gym what type of exercises can I do? I have been reading about cardio rehab is this prescribed by the cardiologist or EP? I just feel so incapacitated but reading the post about these runners is inspiring is that something I can try even though I have never ran before?

5 Comments

We're on the same page Tracey

by Grateful Heart - 2013-09-07 01:09:05

Just a different paragraph. lol

In your 2nd paragraph you said, "Start easy and use common sense, if you overdo it you'll burn out and give up".

Pretty much my thinking in my 1st paragraph, just a different way of saying it. You relayed it much better. :o)

As for Cardiac Rehab, I can't say enough good things about it. I didn't have any plumbing issues, just a few electrical but Cardiac Rehab made me realize I can come back from this even stronger than before....and I have. If someone is not active, I think that is the best place to start for the body, mind and spirit.

WW is good too, they just allow too much sugar, salt and carbs (imo) so I don't follow it fully.

So Pcwhit, we gave you some options. Whatever you decide Pcwhit, just get moving....with Doctor's approval.

Good luck!

Grateful Heart

start slowly

by Tracey_E - 2013-09-07 01:09:17

Either doc can refer you to cardiac rehab. It's often for people who have had heart attacks or major heart surgery, but sometimes it's useful for pm recipients. The supervision can help you get your confidence back.

That said, I'm the opposite of Grateful Heart ;o) If you are otherwise healthy, if you are feeling good, then just jump in and go for it. Start easy and use common sense, if you overdo it you'll burn out and give up. Unless you have other health issues you shouldn't need the structure and supervision of rehab.

It's been a month, you should be able to start some light exercise now. Take it easy with your arm for a few more weeks. I walked and got on the recumbent bike while healing, added hand and ankle weights. After 6-8 weeks, anything goes. I increased time and speed, started swimming, running and using the eliptical instead of walking, added weights, then one day I was bored and wanted a challenge so I joined boot camp.

Here is a very cool program for beginning runners. Just mention it your doc first, make sure he is ok with you running
http://www.c25k.com/
I know quite a few people who have done this and swear by it but most notable is a cousin who was very overweight (more than 100#) and had never worked out. She joined Weight Watchers and started using this program about a year ago. She's running regular 5k's now and is getting ready for her first half marathon.

C25k

by Bostonstrong - 2013-09-07 01:09:20

This is a great way to get started. Jeff Galloway also has a good starting plan on the Run Disney website, he starts people at 5 seconds of running alternating with a minute if walking. I've used both training programs and they are both good. Happy trails !

My contribution

by PacerRep - 2013-09-07 02:09:36

I didn't read all the replys so sorry if this is duplicate information.

After about 3-4 weeks, the calcium and scar tissue has already built up around the wires holding it in place. As far as exercise goes in relationship to your new pacemaker, there is no longer an issue, it's very hard to dislodge the leads. I would still caution activities like, swimming, jumping jacks and other things with excessive overhead movements. But at this point you do not need to be a coach potato any longer =)

No

by Grateful Heart - 2013-09-07 11:09:28

Don't start running now if you have never done it before. At least, not yet....you will set yourself up for failure and injury. Take it a step at a time and start with Cardiac Rehab and or walking. (More on that in a minute).

First of all, your bandage should be off long before now, it has been a month. Have you been back for a follow with your Cardio or EP yet? If not, time for a check up.

Your Cardio can write the prescription for Rehab. That will get you moving. The Nurses will monitor you while you exercise. That is very comforting after a PM/ ICD implant since we don't know how hard we can work our hearts in the beginning. My Nurses were the best and they made it fun!

You will also meet others with similar conditions and realize you are not alone (although you already know that since you found this site). :o)

From there, you can branch out to a gym when you are ready. Since it's only a month, just don't lift over your head yet, follow the arm restrictions on the PM side.

You'll get back in shape, it just takes a little time.

Happy exercising,

Grateful Heart

You know you're wired when...

You have an excuse for being a couch potato.

Member Quotes

At age 20, I will be getting a pacemaker in few weeks along with an SA node ablation. This opportunity may change a five year prognosis into a normal life span! I look forward to being a little old lady with a wicked cane!