Running

I'm 5 weeks post impant (biventricular Medtronic) and want to know what the consensus is on how long before I can start running again. I'm 56 and have run several marathons and ultras. I'm currently walking 5kms about 5 times per week with no side effects. Obviously I would start with a slow build up as is normal after a layoff. Anyone out there been in a similar position?

4 Comments

Started running soon after

by climber - 2011-10-29 06:10:33

I was 49 when I had my PM fitted last year. You're Cardio/PM Tech would of told you about the wires, and how you have to wait a number of weeks. As soon as those weeks were up, I was out running and low level mountain walking. Just start of slow and build up. within 12 months I was mountain wailing taking in all the high level mountains I wanted too. For me it's just a shame that the PM still hurts me. I'm sure you'll get to the level of fittness you want. Have fun. Gary UK.

Start out slowly!!

by PC - 2011-10-30 07:10:31

In Sept 08 I was a few weeks away from running my first Marathon in October when I had a fainting session and was found I needed a pacemaker which was put in, in Sept and it took a few months before I felt comfortable enough to start running again. In the spring of 09 I did my first marathon and have now got 5 Marathons under my belt and am a week away from the New York Marathon of which I qualified for as well. So I would say if you feel comfortable and there is no pain you should be able to resume running in some small way and then slowly build to the level you want.
Happy Runnin !!!

Running

by chloe2011 - 2011-11-29 08:11:40

I am 2 weeks post op, I am already running.....I started some light cardio at the 1 week mark (I am a personal trainer) and now I have started pushing myself again, running about 2km at the moment and will build up! They said lifting arm above head for first 2 weeks, but nothing about running..... hopefully I am doing the right thing !!

Slow and steady wins the race

by smartypants1232 - 2011-11-30 03:11:47

As a personal trainer I'm sure you are eager to get back to your old routine but please be WARNED! You have two wires inside your heart that are trying to heal. Your biggest problem right now is the extreme risk of pulling your leads. Lead replacement is risky at best and a little caution for a month or so should be your main goal. Stick to walking for now and try to keep the high impact running and other activities to a minimum. Once you're healed up (again, give it at least a month) I can guanrantee you will be back at it again.

I'm 28 and had a PM implanted 4/2011. Scar's healed, PM sticks out and leads show when I raise my arm above my head. Freaks the wife. But I was careful as much as possible and I'm back running...but the heavy lifts are out. that's my lifestyle change, having to revise chest and shoulder lifts...they will stress your leads and eventually your leads will break.

Again, play it cool for now.

You know you're wired when...

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