General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you) Rss Feed  
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2012-05-23 9:59 AM

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Subject: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you)

"You have a strong and healthy heart. You're cleared to do all physical activities. I think you're crazy, but good luck trying to become an Ironman."

That's what I heard yesterday from my cardiologist. I had been thinking about going and getting a complete workup, having turned 50 in February. My PCP agreed and wrote the referral. I didn't expect to find any problems, but there were a couple things circulating in my find. First was the two deaths at Philly Marathon last year, especially Chris Gleason, who was a seasoned triathlete and passed away on the course about 5 minutes after I finished. The second was my brother-in-law, who is in great shape, plays and coaches hockey, and found out he had mitral valve prolapse and needs surgery.

So I was nervous for no reason after all. Plus I didn't mind taking my shirt off for the cute resident who examined me. I'm 50, in excellent health, and am going to begin my quest to become an Ironman at Lake Placid, 2013. I guess I become half an Ironman this year, but I see no reason to rush, I am definitely in this for the long haul. I love this lifestyle!



2012-05-23 10:40 AM
in reply to: #4224939

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Subject: RE: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you)
Congrats on the clean bill of health!!  Peace of mind is a good outcome of your proactive check up.  Keep up the good work!
2012-05-23 7:45 PM
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Subject: RE: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you)

melbo55 - 2012-05-23 11:40 AM Congrats on the clean bill of health!!  Peace of mind is a good outcome of your proactive check up.  Keep up the good work!

Thanks, it sure made for 2 good workouts today. Your sig line is very appropriate.

2012-05-24 6:17 AM
in reply to: #4224939

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Subject: RE: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you)
You don't look a day over 30. Great job keeping the heart healthy. Have fun with your training!!
2012-05-24 6:48 AM
in reply to: #4224939

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Subject: RE: Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you)
I needed surgery for mitral valve repair.  Now, a year later (age 55), I can swim/bike/run with no problems, and signed up for a "longer sprint" triathlon in June.  Ironically, I never would have known I had heart problems if I hadn't been in good shape from exercising (did a HIM four years ago).  It was the noticeable decline in capability (and start of afib) that was the clue.  Probably good for any triathlete over 50 to get a good cardiologist workup, just for peace of mind.  Many primary care doctors would simply say "if you can run 10 miles, you're fine" which isn't always the case - especially with a mitral valve issue.
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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Things you really want to hear (Tri is good for you) Rss Feed