hitting the weights has been great

Don't know why but adding some fairly heavy weight training (for my age, 72 in a few weeks) has really improved my overall sense of well being. I had gotten in a rut, was not sleeping well, had a fair amount of anxiety and depression and was having numerous palpatations that were very uncomfortable. Wore a 30 day monitor that established that yes they were happening but no they weren't a threat. So after not doing weights since my first pm in 02, I started hitting it again. Now up to 35 lb dumbells in mt presses and 110lbs on the Lat machine. Really like the lat, I use slow steady technique going for a full stretch on the upstroke and smooth on the the down. No herky jerky. Results have surprised me. Getting really good definition again especially on delts, triceps and pecks. Used to be ripped in my 50's and still have flat abs but need to work on them more. Noe if only I still had hair and no wrinkles! haha Sleeoing much better, BP is noticeably lower, shooting pains around pm almost totally gone and anxiety/depression greatly reduced. Getting started was the hard part. The first few weeks even with light weights were uncomfortable. Had to push myself to go to the gym (hospital wellness center, very well equipped). Now I am faithfully going three mornings a week and allowing rest days between. Still do yard work and projects on off days. I totally encourage any of you to start a regular program as soon as your doc clears you. The mind and body are dependent on each other. To feel well you have to work on both. Sitting around feeling low is a downward spiral. If it hurts or not, you have to get up and get going. Be reasonable, do what you can and try to gradually increase. If you can, get a fitness assessment with a personal trainer and they can set up a program that is right for you. Small improvements add up over time. You can do it, but you have to self motivate. Everday spent moping around and feeling sorry for your self is a day wasted. Get up, get moving and do what you can.

3 Comments

You gotta get moving

by Theknotguy - 2014-02-23 01:02:33

Bill:

Thanks for reinforcing my message. With heart problems you gotta get moving. If you sit there, you'll end up dead.

Had a guy, local to the state. Was asked, "Now that you're retired, when are you going to take it easy." His answer, "All my friends who sat down and took it easy are dead!"

Glad to see the exercise is working so well for you!

Theknotguy

amen!

by Tracey_E - 2014-02-23 08:02:06

Anyone who's been around here for more than ten minutes knows my feelings on staying active. Exercise is good for the soul! Everyone can do something, and every little bit helps. Bill, so glad to hear you are making strides.

oh ya I forgot

by BillMFl - 2014-02-23 10:02:50

I also use the stationary bike and indoor soft track for exercise (can't run because of knees). You want to combine cardio with weight training to get the benefit of both. I see rehab patients who can barely walk at first who make remarkable improvement over time. The gym has a large staff of physical therapists and personal trainers to help all types of patients. I didn't need assistance but its there for those that do. Wellness centers are big now with most major hospitals expanding their capabilities. Check it out. The life you improve could be your own.

You know you're wired when...

“Batteries not included” takes on a new meaning.

Member Quotes

Your heart’s electrical system has a manmade helper. A helper that only knows to do what it is programmed to do and will perform that function day in and day out, without fail. Now, go enjoy your new grip on life.