OMG, I just thought, I haven't smoke in a week, sure I can knock out 20 laps in the pool. I haven't been in the pool since early Dec. I stopped going because I caught the flu really bad, and then that turned into bronchitis. When I did go before I got sick I coughed so much and was so afraid because I could never catch my breath and doing a free stroke lap was almost impossible. Water aerobics was a little easier, but still I coughed. Today I didn't cough once (victory!!) but my lord, my heart was pounding out of my chest! Being determined, I managed to get 16 laps in. I am sure I will feel it tomorrow. Also did some resistance training and that I am sure to feel as well. All in all, it felt great and I feel like I accomplished something! I much prefer the solitude of the pool next to the crowded weight / cardio room.
How long did it take some of you, who have gone back to working out, or just walking, to get some sort of decent stamina? Is my heart always going to pound like this? Will this speed up the recovery of my lungs or slow it down?
Thanks in advance!
Melissa
Woo hoo!! I am no expert but I am an exercise enthusiast (even tho vastly overweight). The pounding will curb unless you push more and more. The exercise will definitely help with the recovery of your lungs immensely. Perhaps you should speak to a Doctor or expert for details. Perhaps someone on this site will have the precise answers BUT exercise is key to taking back your health.
You've just taken this quit and ran with it. Kudos for you!!