Survivor

[Paddyboyo]

Hi, just joined, had a quadruple bypass a year ago, got on great with recovery and fitness then took a lazy turn and finding it difficult to get motivated again.

[skid112 Heart Star]

hi paddyboyo, welcome to the forum.

what sort of exercising were you doing? We have a fitbit group of walkers nothing majorly competitive (I'm coming to get you Laura!!) bit of fun and general encouragement. People from differing heart issues in there

[stevejb1810 in reply to skid112]

Hello Skid

What’s this about a Fitbit group? Can I join if I have something other than a Fitbit?

[skid112 Heart Star in reply to stevejb1810]

healthunlocked.com/bhf/post...

have a look there, not sure about other than a fitbit

[jimmyq]

Build it up gradually. I had quadruple bypass surgery too. I was advised to build it up to 5 miles a day. I can do that now without even getting out of breath. Take your time and be kind to yourself. Don't push it too much. Have a nice long rest afterwards.

[Fredders in reply to jimmyq]

5 miles a day! I’d be happy to do 5 miles a week 😜.

[gal4God in reply to jimmyq]

I’m building it up slowly and it’s fun but just walking at the mo

[jimmyq in reply to gal4God]

While you are resting after your walk I would recommend that you watch the film "Forks Over Knives". It is on Netflix and YouTube. It is about global medical heart research and the findings. You might find it helpful.

[Paddyboyo in reply to jimmyq]

Thanks Jimmy.i will do.

[jimmyq]

It took a long time to build it up.

[stevejb1810]

I think it’s hard to keep doing it if it just becomes a grind and/or lacks variety. Try joining a group or groups (many local authorities do Fitness walks), U3A have walking groups, there is always Park Run, Walking Football . You know the exercise makes perfect sense - but try to keep it fun.

[Zena166]

Hi, Likewise I was doing well following heart attack last year but a couple of recent viruses and I am struggling to get going so I got out my heart recovery manual and have started doing gentle exercises and walking again. Also in my area - County Durham we have a health and well being service which is brilliant. I have met with a health trainer who discussed my needs and is working with me to find suitable exercise classes etc. There is so much out there that I didn't realise! They have access to a wealth of information - so you may have this service in your area, or something similar - your local healtwatch organisation maybe able to help point you in the right direction or your local council. Other options may be NHS exercise apps. What about an exercise buddy maybe someone that you did cardiac rehab with. Hope this helps and all goes well with your exercise. best wishes

Zena

[Phil-52]

Hi Paddy, like the others have said I would highly recommend a group to keep you motivated especially in the winter. I run with a running club and sometimes I struggle to get out in the cold but it's great when I'm there. I swim as part of a triathlon club and I play squash with my daughter. ( Still kick her ass). All I can say is, don't go it alone.

Phil (quad bypass almost two years now)

[Paddyboyo in reply to Phil-52]

Thanks Phil, i think that's my problem, having to go it alone. And the cold weather makes it harder to get out.

[clarehealsworldwide in reply to Paddyboyo]

Hi Paddy. Are there any local walking groups you can join? In my area there are several groups especially to help older people & those recovering from heart conditions. My local BHF support group also holds follow-up exercise classes for people who have completed the 12 session cardiac rehab course at the local hospital. Hope you find something you like. All the best. Clare