Recommendations needed for energy boost

pgchimp · 19-09-2010, 13:47

Hi

I have just started work again as a PCV driver after having a heart attack in Jan 2005. I kept my PCV licence alive by going for the obligatory DVLA medical every 3 years along with the compulsary treadmill test.

As it happens the start of this new job also co-insides with a DVLA medical and another treadmill test, I passed the medical last month and the treadmill test has been arranged for later this week.

As i havent worked for the last 5 years i am getting tired more than usual working and i am wondering if there is a LEGAL, substance, health food, drink, which i can take before the treadmill test just to give me that energy boost to sustain me through the 12 minutes required to complete the test.

I am not trying to cheat the test just looking to tone the body better than it is bearing in mind the body has been idle for the last few years

all suggestions welcome

**Derek** · 19-09-2010, 14:03

12 minutes? A strong cup of coffee or couple of pro-plus.

That said I assume you are fit enough to handle the test and have the OK from your GP?

pgchimp · 19-09-2010, 14:13

The medical is performed by my doctor but the treadmill test is an additional requirement by the DVLA due to the heart attack.

The licence would not be renewed if the Doctor or the DVLA, (this is why this safe guard is put in place). thought I could not complete the treadmill test as I am driving 50 plus persons about up and down uk roads.

I feel i just need that bit extra to help with the treadmill test

peanut · 19-09-2010, 14:19

You could always try 12 cans of Redbull, a bit of coke, a bit of speed, and a tab of ecstasy. You'll probably break the 3 minute mile and get it down to 1, but then you'll probably be dead soon after.

Sorry not much help.

superbiatch · 19-09-2010, 14:29

When is your test? Might give you a little time to build up a bit of stamina

Hom3r · 19-09-2010, 14:31

I'm sorry if I sound harsh, but if you need help to do a 12 minute treadmill walk, then perhaps you shouldn't be driving.

papa smurf · 19-09-2010, 14:32

you could try gentle exercise and walking to build up your stamina ,unless your doing it tomorrow in which case have a good meal prior to the test ,i don't think stimulants are the answer your looking for your heart might not like them .

pgchimp · 19-09-2010, 14:39

its not a 12 minute WALK the test starts off flat then gradually increases in speed and incline until you end up running up hill on the treadmill

What they are trying to establish is that the heart is still fully functioning after having the heart attack and how it reacts under stress.

When driving the heart does not reach anywhere near the levels of activity that it reaches on the treadmill test, the margins of safety built in are extreme and decided by the controlling medical board of the DVLA

Taf · 19-09-2010, 14:43

Fitness is achieved over time, not by any quick fix. But a meal of pasta followed by anything with glucose (Lucozade perhaps) will provide an energy level for exercise.

But extra fuel does not make the engine run any better, neither will it turn poor muscle tone into good.

NoKnowledge · 19-09-2010, 15:12

I would say a can of Red Bull or a bottle of Lucozade, but and it's a big but, you say you had a heart attack and for that reason alone I say talk to your GP.

Nobody on here (unless they're a medical professional) can advise you what to take as we all might just make it worse.

Good luck.

**Hugh** · 19-09-2010, 15:19

As you have said the treadmill test is later this week, can I suggest you go for two fifteen minute walks each day (brisk walk if possible, morning and afternoon) - that way, your body will have had a bit of preparation, and the 12 minutes of exercise will not be such a shock to the system.

Ignitionnet · 19-09-2010, 15:36

What Taf said to be honest - load up on glucose to ensure you've plenty of energy available.

Do not use caffeine it is not appropriate for your needs and will not actually help - caffeine makes blood vessels constrict which is probably not what you will be wanting to happen!

Make sure before the test you are breathing properly - from the stomach right up through your chest instead of shallow breaths, makes a lot of difference and will help you get in the air you need.

Get a bit of exercise going before hand too, shift the cobwebs. Oh and if you smoke - don't.

superbiatch · 19-09-2010, 15:45

Quote:

Originally Posted by foreverwar

As you have said the treadmill test is later this week, can I suggest you go for two fifteen minute walks each day (brisk walk if possible, morning and afternoo) - that way, your body will have had a bit of preparation, and the 12 minutes of exercise will not be such a shock to the system.

I agree, you'll be surprised just how quick your body responds to exercise (and your mind too

)