According to my Fitbit.....

[FlamingoRun]

It’s been 5 weeks since my first ablation. I’m 57 and have been running for 35 years. The week after my procedure I walked between 1-2 miles a day and have since increased to jogging a few blocks then walking one. I bought a Fitbit to help me monitor my hr, but the readings I’m getting are crazy. After jogging ( and I do mean jogging, not running) my hr is between 150 and 165....(?)....but it drops down to the 120s when I walk. Resting (according to the Fitbit) it’s in the 70s. (Pre ablation it was 55). I’m never out of breath and feel like I could pick up the pace, but get scared when I see the numbers. I am wondering if anyone has had similar experiences with a Fitbit? Has anyone had this kind of heart rate? I am frustrated with my progress and want to go back to my normal routine, but don’t want to jeopardize the healing of my heart. Is it me or is it the Fitbit? I would appreciate any stories, experiences or recommendations. Thanks!

[CDreamer]

Yes that is a very common reaction after ablation. My HR took about 9-12 months to return to pre-ablation levels but I wasn’t doing the sort of activity you are.

I really would caution you to pay attention to your HR when exercising - 5 weeks is still very early days and your heart is still healing. I wrecked my first ablation by doing too much, too soon. Go slow and steady, patience does work.

[Hidden]

I have a Fitbit and find that I can go up to 156 when having a walk. Resting HR 52. I used to get worried but have a Heart Rate Monitor app on my phone I use to crops check. My Fitbit tells me I am in fat burning mode just sitting in a chair!! Wish the scales thought the same.

Di

[Hidden]

I think it would be safer to believe your Fitbit at the moment. You may have had the approval of your EP for your exercise programme, but in your case, however frustrating it must be, I think you need to be more cautious.

[BobD Volunteer]

Having AF means making changes to our lifestyles and as I said to another similar member yesterday ablation doesn't cure AF it merely stops the symptoms. Start listening to your body and acting accordingly. It can take a very long time to recover as CD has told you and over working your heart so soon may not be good for long term results. Remember that it has likely been your 35 years of running which has caused the AF in the first place. You don't need to become a couch potato but maybe temper your excesses.

[GordonS]

Does the Fitbit have a chest or wrist monitor? Chest straps are more accurate I believe. Raised HR after ablation is to be expected. Take it easy in the first few months and don't overdo it.

[Kaz747]

My resting heart rate is 59/60 and when going on a reasonably brisk walk the Fitbit generally shows my HR between 110-130 but quite often It will spike at around 150 or 160 - once it was 181. I know Fitbits and Arrhythmias don’t necessarily mix well so I’m not sure if it’s a short run of AFib or if it’s the Fitbit having a wobbly.

[CliveP]

My advice would be to not do anything that raises your heart rate until 3 months after the ablation.

Too much exercise too soon can seriously compromise recovery. I know people who have regretted returning before their heart was fully healed.

Imo the procedure is not complete until the is healed and the scar tissue is fully formed.

I took an extremely cautious approach to returning to exercise and have now been AF free for 2 years. Currently running about 30 miles a week. I ran a hilly half last sunday with no problems and have run several pb’s since my ablation. I put some of this down to my initial caution.

[sadie308]

From what I understand, Fitbit isn't as accurate as chest strap monitors. Here is an article on the subject: livescience.com/56459-fitne...