Training with a heart condition

[SirhcTheBearded]

Hello all I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice. I had a heart attack 6months ago and I have also been diagnosed with heart failure. I am only 32 so I need to get active I have been given permission to start going back to the gym but I want to start doing weights training again anyone got any advice on a programme I could follow

[SirhcTheBearded]

Thanks for the advise I will do no lifting for now I shall heed your warning Thank-you

[Hidden in reply to SirhcTheBearded]

Whilst I agree mostly with what TWU says, I think it is a good idea to start weight training BUT use low weights and 10-12 reps, then when you are ready, slowly increase the weights, reducing the reps if you intend to build.

Suggesting a training program is not really feasible without knowing a lot more about you, I would suggest speaking to a PT who has experience of dealing with heart patients, just make sure they know what YOU want to achieve.

[Hidden]

After my HA I was determined to improve my fitness and to start exercising and strengthening my heart.The simple rule I followed was that I was ok as long as I could continue to have a conversation.....if I couldn't I stopped the exercise.

When I started my online rehab I was given a pulse oximeter and I was given a maximum heart rate when exercising, I found that useful in monitoring myself in the early days

[runamok27]

In cardiac rehab they have everyone do both cardio and weight training. They supply you with a heart rate range that they would like to see you maintain and slowly build on. As for weights it's mostly light weights but they do stress that you need to do both. You really need to go to cardiac rehab. I still go twice a week to cardiac rehab and I go to the gym 3 times a week. My HA was 8 months ago and my cardiologist has just cleared me to, as he put it, "push as hard as you feel comfortable". Take it easy, build up slowly and at your age, you should be able to make a fantastic comeback. Good luck.

[Wooodsie]

Hi Sirhc, I think you can do weights as part of a full workout. Unless you are thinking of serious weightlifting? If that's the case, I'm with TWA. If you just want to build some muscle then up to 10kg per dumbbell in my non professional opinion (note the disclaimer 😂).

There are some good videos on you tube, I highly recommend Jo Wicks dumbbell workouts. You can do these at home (I do).

Good luck

[Misstibbs]

Hi Sircthebearded I haven’t got a program for you but I think it’s good advice is to know and learn your limitations and focus on your heart rate and cardio you can’t beat Joe Wicks 👍I’m back to 5k running now at 70.

[The_Voice]

I’m assuming you’ve been through your 8 week cardiac rehab, and they’re the ones who told you that you’re fine to go back to gym?

[SirhcTheBearded in reply to The_Voice]

No I wasn't offered it I'm guessing due to covid