Injured- how to burn calories in a chair?

gabriola

I have been very active my whole life. I love to move! I have had various associated injuries over the years, but nothing that stopped me. I would dance on crutches!

However, since I turned 50, this wear and tear has slowed me down, and I have gained 20 pounds. I have been favoring a bad knee, then a few days ago I partially tore my achilles, due to the altered gait protecting my knee. :-( I have had achilles tendonitis for 20 years, so this is not likely to heal well... In addition, my lower back has acted up. In addition, I had a melanoma which makes me afraid to swim outdoors. There is not an indoor pool nearby. OUCH!!!!

So. I decided I will be hungry for the rest of my life. That will be the new normal for me. I have lost 8 pounds (YAY). Here I am, out of work, in 2 cast-boots, with a bad knee, using crutches for more that 20 steps. Even grocery shopping is off my list of activities for now.

HELP! How to maintain a minimum level of muscle strength, and burn a few calories while non- weight bearing, without straining my back? I am not willing to give up. My brain, and heart, and hands still work, as my body fails me...

etoiles_argentees

Well, I don't think you'll burn many calories but if you're interested in maintaining flexibility, mobility, there are videos on youtube, DVDs and chair yoga classes that will help. I would look for non profit yoga studios in your area.

MeganCamm8077

Can you use your upper body? If you go for it, different punches (particularly holding weights whilst you do it) can be a decent calorie burner

dynamitegalxo

two words.

shadow. boxing.

gabriola

Great ideas- I didn't know about shadowboxing- found this video to start with

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Q1-FyHyWpw

Please keep the suggestions coming!

bdoug1234

Our local YMCA has several machines that similar to a bike but for your arms. They are used to get your heart rate up while you sit in a chair.

gabriola

I found a little pedal machine, that can go under the desk- move gently while typing or working.
Its like half an exercise bike. Can also be used for arms

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B1VDNQA/ref=gno_cart_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2TXLXKNXCHNPL