Ask the doctor: Am I exercising too much?
Q. I am an 80-year-old man. Forty years ago I had a heart attack after completing a long hike. I stopped smoking but remained very active, doing a lot of hiking and kayaking. I now walk 2 to 3 miles a day, work out with weights three times a week, and walk up and down 25 flights of stairs twice a week. My blood pressure, with the help of medications, hovers around 125/70; my resting pulse is 55. A year ago I tore my quadriceps tendon, but am now back to my usual activities. My physician thinks I am pushing too hard and has urged me to take it easier. Is he right? Should I follow his recommendation?
A. I congratulate you on being so vigorous and giving your blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall cardiovascular health so much attention. You are living proof that you can survive a heart attack and do extremely well for many decades. The medications and lifestyle changes you have made add up to a big reduction in your cardiovascular risk.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
