Newbie

I just had a pacemaker implanted this week and am wondering what kind of recovery timeframe I'm really looking at before I'm training at full strength again. I am currently training for an Ironman in May and am wondering if that is still going to be realistic for me. I'm looking for any help here as I am just beginning to process all of this. Thanks.

2 Comments

6 weeks

by biceps72 - 2011-12-25 07:12:12

is the standard time frame. You are probably not going to be able to raise your elbow above your shoulder or lift anything with your left (or right?) arm for 6 weeks. It seems to me you can bike and run but swimming seems unlikely for 6 weeks.

Talk to your cardiologist-- what I gave you is just the standard advice we all get. May is just 5 months away and 6 weeks of it you will be recovering so I wouldn't be too optimistic but I am not your cardiologist either!

Good luck to you!

Depends

by Ry_ley - 2012-01-27 06:01:50

Hi

I have had a pacemaker for 18yrs (had to go back and figure it out) Have just stumbled on this website. Last implantation was 2006 so can't help you with recovery time. But I am 40(F) and for the last 6 yrs I have been doing triathlons - mainly Olympic distance due to an achilles injury I can't go longer. Might add a World Age Group Champion in 2009, 2010 was 4th as I suffered an achilles injury during the race, 2nd last year and this year training for a win.

So my question is were you training before the surgery? And are you a relatively strong swimmer? If yes to both than I would say it would be doable. Most programs are about 20weeks. Especially if you have been able to bike and run and hit those main training goals than I think a little short on the swim should be ok. A good coach (or program) should be able to guide you. Or even an ironman website where they would have more experience with training etc. Remember to focus on your pace work and nutrition.

Looking at the date I hope you are almost back in the pool.

Best of luck and if I can help let me know.

You know you're wired when...

You have a little piece of high-tech in your chest.

Member Quotes

I had a pacemaker when I was 11. I never once thought I wasn't a 'normal kid' nor was I ever treated differently because of it. I could do everything all my friends were doing; I just happened to have a battery attached to my heart to help it work.