Q&A: Recovering from heart surgery

Sportive, rider, old, recovery, riding, training, hill, climbing

Hi there, I am a 62-year-old male and have been cycling most of my life, I am also a keen hill walker, swimmer and gym member mainly doing weights. Earlier this year I was told I needed a replacement aortic heart valve that would require heart surgery in August or September.



I have been told to stop doing any sort of exercise apart from gentle walking.



When I've had surgery I will do whatever my cardiologist says but I am already suffering withdrawal symptoms from not getting out on either of my bikes. What would your advice be regarding post-op bike rides in terms of how soon, how far and at what heart rate?

Peter Styring

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.