On oxygen and want to increase activity

Time2Focus

I am trying really hard to re-commit to MFP. Stopping in, reading, being inspired. I skip around and read some entries but haven’t seen any quite like me. I weigh just above 350. I have a respiratory condition due to a surgical mishap. I am on oxygen. I see a pulmonologist and a weight management doctor. I have bad knees, arthritis. I have lost 70 pounds in two years. Because of that weight loss, I am a bit more mobile. I need more. It has only made some of my daily life easier. I need to find ways to increase my stamina to become stronger. It’s difficult because either my knees give out, or I lose my breath. I walk, pushing a heavy oxygen cart. Around my house, I can move without the cart but use a cane for some support and am on a fifty foot tube. My appetite is dull because of my weight loss medication. I don’t feel hungry for anything so meal planning is hard. Especially dinner. Lunch is fine because I will eat whatever I take with me. Dinner, I often will grab a donut instead of a meal. A meal doesn’t sound good. I can eat a donut anytime. So, increasing my activity is a must. It’s just what can a super big person who can’t breathe, walk far, who is on a ball and chain, do? Where do I start?

emmamcgarity

Congratulations on your loss so far! I would encourage you to talk to your doctor about what type of exercise would be safe for you before you do anything. If he gives you clearance perhaps some light chair exercises would be appropriate. PBS used to play a program called Sit and Be Fit that was geared toward people with mobility issues. Ask your doctor if he thinks something like this would be a good place to start. And take it slowly.

fishgutzy

One of the best cardio machines for people with joint issues is the Octane recumbent elliptical trainer. You can self pace. Engage arms and legs.
My wife loves that machine at the YMCA.
Exercise helps improve lung function even in those with impairments.
My wife has bronchiactasis. She needs to exercise daily to keep her pulmonary function improving.