Pacemakers and exercise regimes

I'd appreciate any and all information/suggestions for weight training with a pacemaker(exercises to avoid/modify;helpful websites);how soon(1 or 2 months rest to not displace leads).I want to get back to pre- pacemaker training as soon as possible.Thank you in advance for your assistance, Paul

5 Comments

depends on your condition

by Tracey_E - 2008-12-09 06:12:40

It sounds like you were in pretty good shape before you got your pm! If you are otherwise healthy, you should be back to your old self- or maybe even better!- pretty quickly. A lot depends on why you needed the pm so get your doctors approval before doing any exercise.

I was otherwise healthy and the pm completely fixed my problem (av block) so I started mild aerobic exercise the first few days I was home. I started with easy walking then gradually built up speed and time. Your heart has had a shock so don't jump into anything quickly.

You should not lift weight or raise your left arm above your shoulder for 6 weeks because you can displace the leads. After the 6 weeks is up, and after your doctor says it's ok, just start slowly back on your old routine. You may feel a pulling sensation around your pm, depending on your build and where they placed it. If it's uncomfortable, stop. You should be able to do everything you did before, just ease into it.

randrews

by Tracey_E - 2008-12-10 02:12:02

After the first 6 weeks, you should be able to do bench presses and flies without worrying about displacing leads. I do both, but I'm a wimpy girly girl and don't lift much. It may be uncomfortable, depending on how your pm is placed and your build, but it's not dangerous.

hi

by randrews - 2008-12-10 08:12:14

Work up to it slowley. I wonder about bench pressing or doing flys since you don't want to pull the leads out. But there are lots of people here who lift. there are websites for athletes with heart issues.
Rusty

Weight training

by shroutosaur - 2008-12-10 11:12:34

I just had my second pacer on Dec 8th. Doctor says I can go back to lifting in about 6 weeks. Meanwhile, I can still exercise using a treadmill, stationary bike, etc.

Appreciate the responses

by ny paul - 2008-12-11 04:12:21

Thanks for all your suggestions.If I can be of any help,please don't hesitate to ask.Have a Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year,Paul

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