Pacemaker and running

[Hanzy]

Had a pacemaker fitted last week, thought I was doing well as when I ran my heart rate didn't go up above 77 bpm, but apparently not correct, now I am back, don't want to restart c25k, so started by walking until the wound has healed then will see how far I can manage by Jeffing it, my walking is up hill, as i live bottom of valley so the only way out is up.

[nowster Graduate10]

Have you asked your doctor(s) their opinion about this?

[Fionamags Graduate10]

Hope your recovery and fitness go well.

[SueAppleRun Graduate10 60minGraduate]

Take it easy and listen to your body, good luck for a speedy recovery

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate10]

Good luck and good for you. It seems to be generally acknowledged that there is no problem running, even long distances with a pacemaker so long as fitness isn't an issue so walking seems like a great start.

Has your doctor asked you to keep your HR down to a certain level or just to be careful?

[Hanzy in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

No he just said go for it, shouldntbe a problem, stop is wound site uncomfortable. So once I know I am not going to start passing out again I will be going for it.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate10 in reply to Hanzy]

That's fantastic! 👍🏻 I'll be rooting for you! 😁

[Hanzy in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

Thanks

[Semmy 60minGraduate]

I’ve had a pacemaker for over 35 years… I started c25k again in the first lockdown last year and have carried on running mostly on a treadmill, but once a week outside. I had to have my pacemaker settings tweaked a little at the pacemaker clinic as my heart rate was too slow for running even though it is rate responsive. So you may need a tweak at your first check.

My advice about running so soon after you’re procedure would be to be careful about swinging your arm too much (on the side where your pm is placed). The pacing wires need to bed in and get secure and any repetitive movement would not be so good.

I’ve had many pacemakers over the years and I live an active ‘normal’ life. If I’m running outside I do wear a wrist band saying ‘pacemaker fitted’ and I carry my pacemaker ID card in my backpack, just in case. Hope that’s helpful. 🙂

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate10 in reply to Semmy]

That's brilliant to hear! Happy running 😁

[Hanzy in reply to Semmy]

Thank you that is so helpful, I am only walking at the moment and won't start running till after my first check up.