How Much Is Too Much?

This may be premature, as I've had my Li'l Intruder for less than a month, but I'm starting to go a little crazy, what with not doing anything. I'd been using the post-Nautilus 'Strive' system of machines at my local YMCA, and when I talked with my surgeon about continuing to exercise, he said it would probably be okay, as long as I didn't go for 'monster amounts of weight', he said. Well, at 65, I'm not looking to be mistaken for Ahnold in his prime -- and I haven't been pushing much more than 120 on the seated bench press -- and as I weigh just over 200 lb, that's not 'monster' I don't think.
Anyway, I think I'll be able to get back to my routine in another couple of weeks, and would appreciate any feedback/warnings/encouragements. Thanks, all.

2 Comments

LI'L INTRUDER

by nelcor - 2012-02-16 09:02:37

My PM is a welcome guest,Sparky is the boss now.Hope he stays around for a long long time.I am a 72 yr old lady and plan to keep Sparke /PM for another 30 yrs.God bless and enjoy slowing down.Have had my pm sence 2/2/12.

get clear direction

by 6efrau - 2012-02-23 06:02:59

Hi there. I was a very avid P90X girl before receiving my pacemaker in September 2010. I have been very specific in my discussions with my doctor about what I can and cannot do in relation to weight lifting and returning to a regular exercise routine. Recognizing we all have different issues in regards to our heart, the leads are the concern in regards to the exercise.

I was told never to lift any weights over my head. Lying down to do a chest press, keep it in the mid range as in never completely extend the arms and never allow the weight to come all the way to the chest causing your elbows to go back behind your shoulders.

I was told no more push-ups or pull-ups. You see your collar bone can act as a saw on the lead and in a completely extended arm position your rib can cut the lead.

So,my best advice is to be very specific with your doctor about each exercise to ensure your own safety. I have read on this sight about others who have cut their leads while weight lifting because they did not heed the caution.

Take care.

You know you're wired when...

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

Member Quotes

I just want to share about the quality of life after my pacemaker, and hopefully increase awareness that lifestyles do not have to be drastically modified just because we are pacemaker recipients.