Originally posted by easttexan
I am a reformed smoker and had my last cigarette when I had a heart attack and bypass surgery on July 11, 2002. My conditioning seems to be progressing properly...
Way to go, Easttexan! I quit in 1990 after smoking about three packs a day for 15 years (and living off coffee.)
Now I can run upstairs or do just about anything without getting out of breath. Give it some time. In addition to lung development, I think part of what makes your breathing better is the increased capacity of your cardiovascular system and your muscles; it takes time for those to develop.
As long as your physician has cleared you for intense exercise, you might try hitting the hills. Also, go for some long, slow rides. It's a balance between intensity of exercise and recovery.
Above all be patient.