When I was diagnosed with a Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), the name alone scared me to bits. What really freaked me out, though, were the limitations I was given by my doctor. First, I was put on a permanent medication called Atenolol, which basically lightens the load on my heart by slowing it down a bit, but makes me feel even more tired than usual.

Next I was given what I call the “No-No List” which basically said no hardcore cardio exercise – no running, no excessive use of stairs; the list went on and on. Being that I was never what you would consider a “gym enthusiast,” I didn’t really have a problem with the rules at the time, but quickly found out that just about every type of exercise that I was actually interested in was considered a No-No for me. This left me with a problem: How in the world was I supposed to keep myself from getting massively overweight if I was tired all the time and couldn’t do any real cardio?

Last year I started looking into exercise alternatives and I have to say, almost everything I have found has been fun and fulfilling for me. From Yoga and Pilates to scheduled walking and low speed bicycle rides, I found that there were tons of options out there for someone with limited exercise capability like me. Recently, I have really gotten into using my Wii Fit. It offers Yoga, which stretches my body and helps me to stay limber. It also provides strength training to build muscle and work off fat without getting my heart rate going. There are even a few really fun games like hoola hooping that helps to tighten up my abs and backside!

With all of the modern technology out there (and a little help from my handy-dandy wrist monitor), I am able to exercise and strengthen my body and heart, all the while keeping my actual heart rate at a reasonable level for my safety. Now, with summer on its way, I really need to get to work on improving my body and staying as healthy as can be!

Do you have any alternative exercises that you like to do? Do you know someone with a health condition who has had to be creative in order to maintain a lifestyle that includes regular exercise? I’d love to hear your ideas!

Photo Credit: Healthy Heart