Heart bypass is a surgery performed to repair blocked arteries of the heart. Following surgery, patients are usually sent to a cardiac rehabilitation program where they exercise under the supervision of physicians, nurses, and exercise physiologists. After clearance from cardiac rehabilitation programs, individuals are released to continue exercise at a local gym or with a private fitness trainer. Bodybuilding with heart bypass is possible and can enhance the quality of life for an individual following surgery.
Step 1
Ask your physician and/or surgeon for clearance to participate in a bodybuilding program at the local gym.
Step 2
Purchase a heart rate monitor from your local sporting goods store to wear during your bodybuilding program. Exercise at the recommended heart rate provided to you by your physician.
Step 3
Begin with a few basic exercises using fitness machines. Include a chest press, a seated row, leg presses, arm curls, arm extensions, shoulder presses, and core exercises in your fitness routine. Use light weight during your first few weeks of training.
Step 4
Start by performing one set of each exercise for 10 to 12 repetitions, one to two days per week.
Step 5
Move at a slow, steady pace when performing exercises. Exhale on the lift portion and inhale on the lowering portion of exercise. Don't hold your breath through any portion of your lifting.
Step 6
Progress your strength training program slowly. Add more sets and reps after six to eight weeks of consistent training.
Step 7
Allow the muscles to rest for 48 hours following strength training.
Step 8
Go to the gym with a workout partner for the first few weeks if you are unable to hire a trainer.
Step 9
After six to eight weeks of regular strength training, begin to substitute free weight exercises in your strength training program.
Step 10
Check back in with your physician as scheduled to ensure that you are progressing nicely and not over exerting yourself.
Tips and Warnings
- Hire a qualified fitness professional to help with program design, if possible. Check to see that your fitness professional is certified by a national organization and/or has a degree in exercise science and experience working with special populations.
- Consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist before beginning any type of exercise program. Follow up with your doctor regularly during your bodybuilding program to ensure that you are not overexerting yourself. Progress slowly through your bodybuilding program and listen to your body.
Things You'll Need
- Gym membership
- Free weights
- Athletic clothing
- Athletic shoes
References
- "ACSM's Exercise Management for Persons with Chronic Diseases and Disabilities 3rd edition"; American College of Sports Medicine; 2009
- "Fitness and Health 5th edition"; Brian J. Sharkey PhD, 2002.
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