Wolfvegas

So I took my bike out for it's very first real test and my real first test after heart surgery.... I got winded after 5-10 minutes and if there is any wind against me then ohhh man it gets rough. As long as I keep going out every day though it should improve, keep riding to the end of the road and back and so on and so fourth. Any suggestions to speed up my endurance. My leg muscles are weak but my breath is what is doing the real number.

1nterceptor

It just takes time I suppose to get back into it.
If you can ride 6 days a week that would help speed up things.
But don't over do it either, that would be just as bad as not riding
enough. Don't forget, have fun!

jehowe

Congratulations on your recovery and getting on the saddle! I hope it wasn't anything too major- as if any heart surgery isn't!. Have you seen or been offered physical therapy? I'd be hesitant to take any fitness goal advice from anyone other than a trusted cardiologist who understands your condition. I'd expect it will take time and a lot of baby steps for endurance gains as healing continues and the extent of any permanent damage. Best of health and good riding to you.

hueyhoolihan

you didn't specify what type of heart surgery. bypass, stent, angioplasty, arthroscopic, etc.

i imagine a full blown bypass would be the most devastating to athletic performance. not to mention the deleterious effects of any medications you are taking. but after a full recovery which might take months, it's very likely that your performance will improve beyond your pre-surgery level. so that's something to look forward to.

Wolfvegas

just a pacemaker change, only took an hour and I was awake but still I hear ya. I really need to pick up a helmet

hueyhoolihan

maybe they set the battery mode to "extended life" rather than "performance"...

Retro Grouch 

Check with the folks on the 50+ board. You'll probably find somebody who has personal experience that's a perfect match for your situation. I'm in a somewhat similar situation but recovering from a broken hip rather than heart issues.

There's a lot of wisdom in knowing how hard to push yourself. I'm thinking a little too easy is better than a little too hard but it's also kind of easy to baby yourself too much. Finding the middle ground is always tricky.

a1penguin

Your doctor is the best person to consult regarding exercise and how hard to push yourself.

ottawa_adam

Go to the gym and do some squats and core exercises. That will help build up some core strength.

Wolfvegas

I am 24..... I don't think I need to be on the 50+ board ha ha.

ratdog

24 years old and already on a pacemaker? Sorry to hear that you have to have one at such an early age. Anyway,...

My recommendation would be to speak with your doctor or hospital that did the surgery and see if you qualify for a rehabilitation program. They will be able to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure as they put you through warm up and exercises. Helps to put your mind at ease when exercising and give you a baseline as to how far you can push yourself when you're on your own. I know it help with my rehab.

Good luck.