Any stories of post heart attack return to form !!

Had a MI (heart attack) three weeks ago which was a hugh suprise in that I am 46 and in the best shape of my life. Had chest pains but faked out numerous stress tests and ekgs. Am starting cardio rehab in two weeks. I am looking for info and inspiration in any form concerning my expected pace and extent of recovery.

 

W/come to the forums bary01.
I just turned 35, had an aortic valve replacement 3 years ago. I got infection on the valve after routine surgery a couple of years before, this caused a tear in the valve and it gradually got worse to the extend that I had to get the valve replaced. At that time I was as fit as a fiddle; I used to go to the gym 5 days a week, played squash and did pistol shooting.
Needles to say I thought that it was the end of sports for me and was reluctant to start anything till I got so frustrated one day I just decided stuff that, I survived once and if something is going to happen to me then so be it!
I started weight training again and gradually worked myself up to the same level as before the operation. I then relocated and started a new career with my brother and he got me into cycling, never been sorry. I do some races locally but mostly ride for the fun of it and to stay in shape. I ride to work 3 times a week (about 50km’s each time) and try to do longer rides on weekends (been getting slack lately, with winter here it’s to dark in the mornings).
I went for my annual check-up about a month ago, did a stress ECG, ultrasound and everything and the cardiologist reckons I’m good for a long time to come.
The most important thing is to listen to your body (heart). I try not to push it over the limits, to the limit works just fine! Get enough rest in between and when in doubt ASK. See your specialist the moment something doesn’t feel right. If you want to race do it for fun, if you put to much pressure on yourself you put unnecessary strain on your heart!
Remember that staying fit is the best medicine as long as you don’t overdose. Keep those wheels spinning, it may be a long, slow and difficult road to full recovery so be patient!
Good luck!!!

 

BTW, feel free to pm me if you want to ask something.

 

Barry:

Sorry to hear about your MI. As riders, we like to ride, trade war stories, and get into debates, but what matters is is we have good health. Nothing else really matters. Good health is the ultimate wealth.

In the late 90's there was a U.S. Masters team that rode in the Race Across America (RAAM). They rode for an American H.M.O. (secure horizons).
The team was comprised of life-long smokers/drinkers/overweights and all had suffered from CV disease and had multiple bypasses and other heart surgeries. The guys were in their 60's and 70's and had never exercised before.
After several months training, the guys looked great, had lost a lot of fat and finished the RAAM ok. They were totally transformed as human beings. Becoming riders changed their life for the better.

The body is capable of so much, you can pretty much kick ass in anything you set your mind to as long as you are breathing & determined, and at any age!!!

Shoot for the stars and never give up!!!

Good health and good luck!!!

 

I fully agree with J-MAT, do what ever you want to do, just don't over do it!