Under 11 Minutes

I am 50. Last year (before PM) I started working out on the treadmill in an effort to pare down my growing middle age waistline and keep my weight below the dreaded second century mark. Last fall, I ended up running my first 5K and 10K. Not fast, but not last. My peak treadmill time last year was about 9:30 per mile, averaged out over three miles. My outside time was always slower. I always considered that close to my limit, as this soft old body isn't built to go much faster.

I had my pacemaker implant about two months ago. The cardiologist cleared me to get back on the treadmill about two weeks after the implant, although I've been doing it sporadically and taking it easy when I do. I've been keeping my workouts down to about 80%. Today, I decided to open 'er up and see if I could break 11 minutes per mile over my usual distance. Over 3 miles, I was able to average 10:43/mile and over four miles, I was able to average 10:52/mile.

So, I am pretty happy about breaking through one wall, and it looks like I am on my way to recovering my old time. Next up, I'll try and work towards the 10:30 barrier. There is a 5K run in March I'd like to do with my daughterl. Not fast, but not last.

2 Comments

way to go!!!!

by Tracey_E - 2009-01-09 05:01:42

That's great news, congratulations!!! If you're already under 11 min two months out of surgery, you should be kickin some butt by may!

GREAT JOB !!!!!!!

by Angelie - 2009-01-09 05:01:45

I commend you greatly for your accomplishment. I KNOW it's hard.
I'm 33 and got a pacemaker 5 months ago, but have heart problems all of my life. I always wanted to run, but never was able. When I got my pacemaker, I decided for some reason to give running a try. I started fast walking (which looks really ridiculous- but I don't care) on the treadmill at 2 weeks post-implant. At 6 weeks, I started running and signed up for my first 5k.
Man, I've gotta tell ya. You run faster than me. I finished in 39 minutes, but it was easier than I thought it would be and it went by so fast. It was incredible.
Keep it up. I know you can do it! Thanks so much for sharing your story with us.

Angelie

You know you're wired when...

You have an excuse for gaining an extra ounce or two.

Member Quotes

I'm 43 and have had my pacemaker four weeks today. I'm looking forward to living another 50 years and this marvelous device inside me will help me do that.