HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Getting that heart rate up when you have fibro.....

Support Forums
>
Fibromyalgia
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 5/4/2018 12:01 PM (GMT 0)
I'm looking for ideas for getting my heart rate up, as if I just had a good run.

No, don't worry-- I'm not looking to do this immediately; it's just a goal. My problem is that with my neuro condition, the more I walk, the more stiff my legs and feet become. I've been checked out extensively by a top neurologist, and he has no idea why.

Swimming would be ideal, but because of this odd condition I have, my toes cramp when I'm in the water. Ouch! smhair

I was thinking maybe something like dancing, where I can dance like no one else is watching (or would want to watch, LOL!) smilewinkgrin

Just this winter, I developed a fairly good exercise routine for stretching, but I still would like to see a better workout.

What has worked for you? How do you get your heart pumping? Ideas very appreciated! idea
Posted 5/4/2018 2:11 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Luv,

I try to exercise, too, but getting the heart rate up with these fibromyalgia symptoms--now that's a challenge. I think what works best for me is if I turn on some peppy music and dance using a variety of steps such as the grapevine to use my different muscles so I'm not apt to tire them as quickly.

For some of us, our fibromyalgia and muscles weakness go hand in hand. Here's an informative article:

http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_dysmen.html

I think what brought on my muscle weakness is nerve damage from old injuries.
Posted 5/4/2018 6:18 PM (GMT 0)
Pick up some old Richard Simmons videos. Remember Dancing with the Oldies? They are a riot and Iā€™m sure you can still get them. There is a lot of aerobics in them too.

You can ride a bike. Or, if that is too difficult, you can buy a piece of exercise equipment that is actually a set of bike pedals. Sit in the easy chair and peddle...while watching Dancing with the Oldies. šŸ˜‚ While pedaling, move your arms up, down and sideways quickly. Or hold hand weights or large cans of food when moving your arms.

Sherrine
Posted 5/4/2018 10:25 PM (GMT 0)
We sure hear you on the stiffness issues..

And the heartrate.. its a challenge at times..

I was trying to just get going again with a bike and treadmill. For some reason i was hurting from the treadmill, so i am using the bike some..yesterday i upped the resistance , ouch..

Its difficult to find what is still good for us and when its too much..i read an article at some point that said we need to start so slowly and work up just as slowly , but we will feel better if we do it that way..

So be sure to let yourself work into it slowly..i also find, its better for me to change what i am doing, not the same every day..


Good luck with what you choose
Posted 5/8/2018 1:53 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks so much for the replies, almost medfree, Sherrine, and Lj. These are all great ideas and suggestions!

I seem to be "extra stiff" this Spring and am heading to the doctor next week. I'm wondering if the late weather warm-up, the recent snow storm and the general roller coaster weather isn't flaring things up.

No matter what, I'll keep moving! Yesterday it was almost hot outside and I planted some pepper and tomato plants in the garden. The warm sun felt so GOOD! smile I am paying for it a bit today, however, but all in all, it went well.
Posted 5/10/2018 12:09 AM (GMT 0)
I tried a little shopping, but definitely wore the wrong shoe..but we were going out to dinner after , so...

I sat in the sun for 20 today.it does feel good ā˜€ļøšŸ˜Š

Luvs, our weather was super erratic and it definitely was taking a toll..i was flaring like crazy with it..

Will they check your vit d levels..when mine drops i sure feel awful...
Posted 5/10/2018 4:58 AM (GMT 0)
I use to walk a few miles a day for my cardio exercise. Now the arthritis in my feet make this too difficult.
I have an elliptical machine that I use most days. I read a book while I use it! I started out slowly and have increased the difficulty gradually.

I also still bike ride. I started biking again after I recovered from a total knee replacement. I go in the morning before it gets too hot. And I only ride in the community where I live. But I really enjoy riding and it is good exercise.
Posted 5/11/2018 11:35 PM (GMT 0)
Lj: Good idea about checking vitamin D levels. I'll write that down and hopefully remember to ask my doctor (I always take a million notes with me!).

puppylover: Bike riding is such fun! Unfortunately, I had to give it up with my neuro issues, and I sure miss it. The elliptical machine is something that sounds really helpful. I should check that out. Sounds like a great winter exercise, too. Any suggestions as to the best place to buy one?

Thank you both! smile
Posted 5/12/2018 4:36 AM (GMT 0)
We have had our elliptical for years but I think we got it at Sears. Are they even open still?

I would check prices online to find one you like. It's the best exercise for me because there isn't so much impact on my feet. And it does get my heart rate up. And I can use it year round. I use to go to a gym to use their elliptical. Now I don't have to drive somewhere to use one. I get up, take the dogs out, feed them and then use the machine. And no, I really don't feel like using it so early! But I make myself get going. It does make e feel better after I am on it for awhile.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply