Seeking Advice on Heart Rate After Light Exercise
At 18 years old, standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 357 pounds, I've recently been diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). To start addressing my health, I've incorporated walking into my routine. During my initial attempt, I took a gentle 10-minute stroll to keep things manageable. To my surprise, I noticed that my heart rate elevated to 167 beats per minute after this brief walk. While I didn’t experience any chest discomfort, I did feel slightly lightheaded. Taking into account the warm weather—approximately 84°F—and that I was dressed in a hoodie and joggers, I’m curious if this heart rate is alarming. Should I be worried about how my heart is responding to light exercise? My goal is to shed some pounds, but I feel like I’ve hit a plateau. Any insights or reassurances would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
Answers (1)
6/14/2025, 9:01:05 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you've started incorporating walking into your routine! While an elevated heart rate during exercise can be normal, your heart rate of 167 beats per minute after a gentle 10-minute walk is on the higher side, especially considering your age and the conditions you mentioned.
Explanation:
- Your heart rate can increase during exercise as your body works harder to supply oxygen to your muscles. However, reaching 167 beats per minute suggests that your body may still be adjusting to physical activity, especially since you are beginning to exercise after a period of inactivity.
- Some factors that can contribute to a high heart rate include the warm weather, your clothing, hydration levels, and possibly your current fitness level. Lightheadedness can signal that your body may need better acclimatization or hydration.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Your Heart Rate: Keep track of your heart rate during and after exercise. Ideally, it should gradually return to your resting heart rate within a few minutes after finishing.
- Hydrate Well: Ensure you drink enough water before, during, and after your walks, especially in warmer weather. Dehydration can contribute to lightheadedness.
- Gradual Intensity Increase: For the time being, keep your walks shorter or at a gentler pace than your initial attempt. As your fitness improves, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity.
- Clothing Considerations: On warmer days, opt for lighter clothing and possibly a time of day with cooler temperatures to make your walks more comfortable.
- Monitor Symptoms: If you continue to experience lightheadedness or if your heart rate frequently remains elevated during light activities, consider adjusting your exercise approach.
It's encouraging that you're taking steps to improve your health. Remember, consistency will be key, and it's perfectly acceptable to take things at your own pace. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or if they persist, it may be helpful to seek further guidance on your exercise plan. Keep up the great work!
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