Injury / Gastroc Tear / Lots of questions, please help!

KolieBug27

I tore a left calf muscle last Thursday 5/29 and am really upset about it for several reasons. I have lost up to 27 pounds and went a little crazy in May so planned to hit it hard in June and July before my trip to Cabo in August... Then this happened doing something I had been doing for months... A little sprint up a hill. So. Very. Bummed. Sooo...

1) If you've had a gastroc tear, I'd love some advice. It's up to an 8 week healing process and I am welcoming tips on how you overcame your injury and your timelines. I don't want to be afraid to run up a hill ever again. It's only been a week for me.

2) Cardio suggestions? I can't walk / bike / hike etc. I basically only have one useful leg.

3) Calories... What should I eat? Without much exercise, is 1200 too much? I am 33, 5'3" and just under 160 (down from 180 when I started last October). Would still like to continue to lose steadily, but how?!

4) Weights... Should I hit these harder than usual for my upper body? Just for the one good leg? Is that silly? Any sitting weight routines to share?

Thank you in advance for your advice. I'm really scared this is going to be a huge setback, and I've come too damn far! I appreciate the help.

Nikole

kd_mazur

Rest, ice, compression, elevate.

I have been there. I did one calf muscle jumping in volleyball and the other a year later playing softball. Unfortunately, you can't rush the healing process and trying to push it may end up setting you back further.
Watch your diet for a few weeks and maybe by W4 or 5 you will be able to bike. running was out of the question for about 8 weeks after for me.

KolieBug27

Thank you, KD!