Originally Posted by
bpcyclist
So, there are many reasons most of us ride and one of them is for health, physical and mental. But unfortunately , in our general age group (I am 55), cardiovascular disease can become an issue. Exercise is obviously very good for the cardiovascular system. But all the exertion that comes with a hard ride also does, to a certain extent, increase the risk of a cardiac event in those susceptible. Personally, if I die on my bike, I will be a happy man. My question is, given the potential heart risks and given age, do you ever worry while you are riding that you are working too hard? Like, dangerously hard? Do you ever back off a little because of that? I ask this because, the other day, I was on a quite tough climb and I was really, really working and it suddenly occurred to me--hey, you may be in good cycling shape, but you're not 30 anymore. Maybe you should chill out.
I kept going. But it got me to wondering whether I was the only older fella who ever thinks about these things. If so, how does it figure into your riding? Just wondering. Thanks for your thoughts.
I know what you mean. I definitely think about it sometimes. But:
1. I don't really push it that hard ... even in endurance races. I pace myself.
2. I've had a lot of tests. I recommend a CT angiogram with contrast to check out the status of your cardiac arteries. I've had EKGs up the wazoo. I've been part of some cardiac clinical trials. I've had several
echocardiograms to confirm that my heart was not enlarged and that all the valves were working the way they should.
If you're really concerned, get a complete cardiac workup ... then put your mind at ease.