Cardio with a fused toe?

SoniaBlenkhorn

Help! I had my big toe fused to my foot to correct an issue I was having, and running (my former choice of cardio) is no longer an option. The nearest gym is a 30 minute drive from my home, and I have no cardio equipment of my own. Anyone else have a fused toe that found a good way to get the old heart rate up? Advice and tips are much appreciated.

concordancia

Can you cycle? Swim?

SoniaBlenkhorn

I’m in eastern Canada. Swimming outside is only realistic 2 months of the year. And the closest pool is at the closest gym . But cycling might work. If I can track down a friend with a bike, I’ll give that a try. Thanks for your suggestions.

lorrpb

I drive 35 min to get to the gym and pool. I can't go everyday so I also acquired an elliptical and weights to use at home. I've also used Leslie Sansone walk at home videos. An experienced exerciser can get heart rate up with those if you follow the more advanced modifications.

browndog900

What about jumping? Can you do jump rope or burpees? Also you could do more arm exercises like bag punching might not be the cheapest option.

SoniaBlenkhorn

Thanks for the ideas, everyone. Driving to the gym is out. I commute 90 minutes each way every day to and from work. I also have 6 children involved in different after school and weekend activities. I have little free time. So any exercises need to be done either at home or locally. I do have a total gym that helps with strength training, but I may have to crack and invest in a good piece of cardio equipment. Stupid toe.

dreamer12151

Not sure what you mean by "fused"? I had ortho surgery on my left foot, the bones were shaved down, toes moved, Heuter's neuroma removed, and now I have 4 screws in it. I have permanent numbness, and limited range of motion. However, thankfully, I can run again. Must be frustrating not to be able to!

Assuming you can still walk? Just stick with walking, taking longer, more dedicated walks maybe? How about dancing? Just putting on some good music & letting yourself go, or following along to a video (DVD or YouTube). Pilates? I used to follow Cassey Ho's Blogilates program, she also has a more intense program you might want to check out. And I'm also for a good bike ride. (that's my choice for a "cross train")

Good luck to you, and here's hoping you can get back to a good run!

sgt1372

Erg rowing should be no problem w/a fused toe or any other foot problem.

A Concept2 rower is recommended.

Could bore you w/the details but there's a recent thread where I've already elaborated. Just use the search terms "rower" and/or "Concept2."

capaul42

Check out buy and sell groups in your area, you can probably pick up used rowers and/or elliptical and/or bikes. This is how I got my treadmill.