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Endurance athletes & HCM

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) | Last Active: Oct 7, 2021 | Replies (7)

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@hopeful33250

Hi @jkbrooks and @johnbishop,

While I don't have HCM, I do have long-term heart valve problems as well as a mild form of heart failure (diastolic dysfunction), so I know a little bit about adjusting an exercise routine to meet a change in physical endurance.

If you've enjoyed a certain type of exercise the change to a slower pace or a different type of exercise can feel like a let-down and a real loss.

It sounds as if you have both made the necessary adaptations to your workout routines and are keeping as healthy as possible.

I'm wondering, how long was it before deciding on these adaptations?

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Replies to "Hi @jkbrooks and @johnbishop, While I don't have HCM, I do have long-term heart valve problems..."

Hi Teresa, For me the change was gradual. I still enjoyed golfing, biking and racquetball with a few friends into my mid 50s but I started slowing down into my 60s when it was harder for me to walk any distance. Then when I got into my 70s and the walking became more difficult, I found that it was easier to spend time doing exercise in my home on a recumbent bike/elliptical combination machine which I eventually exchanged for a Teeter FreeStep Cross Trainer. It's easier on the legs with a more natural walking motion and it also exercises the arms.