Exercises that don't use arms

hkclaire
hkclaire Posts: 17
in Fitness and Exercise
I have developed a nerve problem that basically means I won't be able to use my right arm/shoulder for the next 9-12 months (other than rehab exercises with my physio). I'm reasonably fit and was doing a pretty intense bootcamp (with weights), pilates, swimming, running & walking. I'm feeling really down as really only left with walking, and hopefully some running if my physio lets me. I'm hoping to do some strength activities at home or in the gym. (I have a small gym in our building.)

So .... hit me with your exercises that don't use your arms at all!

Replies

  • LorinaLynn
    LorinaLynn Posts: 13,247 Member
    Ouch! :drinker: for a speedy recovery.

    Recumbent bike?
  • mmddwechanged
    mmddwechanged Posts: 1,687 Member
    I have a similar problem!! Can't use my right arm for at least twelve months! I do passisive movements lie lifting my arm with my left, using a pulley or pendulum swings. I'm in pain everyday but guess what? Since this problem began three months ago I have lost seven pounds from diet alone, I run a little and walk and I do squats. I'm going to find out my body fat percentage, if its under 30% I'll be quite happy consideringy lack of resistance exercise.
  • mjrkearney
    mjrkearney Posts: 408 Member
    Recumbent bikes for the win, but there's also jogging and a lot of lower body weight training if you have the machines for it.
  • Mutant13
    Mutant13 Posts: 2,485 Member
    Lunges, leg presses, b/w squats, jumps, walking, leg lifts
  • Yogi_Carl
    Yogi_Carl Posts: 1,906 Member
    It's times like these you realise just how important the shoulder joint is. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

    Are you able to swim on-sided - as in the lifesaving stroke? or tread water? would be good to keep up some water therapy.
  • hkclaire
    hkclaire Posts: 17
    Thanks guys. I had the same thing happen about 2 years ago on my left arm. I had finally gotten over it all and built up some decent strength and now it happens again :sad: I don't even want to think about what is happening to my body fat. It was low 20s. I've got serious muscle wastage in my shoulder already. I guess I can only do what I can do.

    I hadn't thought about the bike. We have a recumbent one in my gym. Great idea! We've got a couple of leg weight machines. I'll have to suss them out, as i generally prefer to use free weights (which are obviously out).

    I guess squats & lunges will have to become my friends. Not sure if I will be able to do any jumps as you actually end up using your arms a lot to balance. I'm going to have to be quite creative with my ab exercises too, as I can only lift one arm above my head.
  • twinketta
    twinketta Posts: 2,130 Member
    running, cycling as well as the ones people mentioned. Hula hooping, sit ups, leg raises the list is endless...but I am sure you will get more...

    Hope you are better soon!
  • Ejourneys
    Ejourneys Posts: 1,603 Member
    My Magne-Trainer doesn't require anything from my arms at all:
    http://www.magnetrainer.com/

    It's also small enough to be used on a tabletop and has been used for physical therapy for arms, once you can exercise your shoulder again (check with your physio). Should be good for one-armed exercise as well.

    Am sorry to hear about your nerve problem and hope for a good, solid recovery!
  • iorahkwano
    iorahkwano Posts: 709 Member
    - Walking
    - Running
    - Exercise or Recumbent bike
    - Varied lunges, squats, kicks, side steps
    - Box jumps (or step-ups)
    - Skipping rope
    - Jumping jacks lifting only one arm?
    - Sit-ups, crunches, russian twist, scissors, leg lifts, ceiling lift, etc.
    - Continue training your good arm (Bicep curl, tricep extension, lateral raise, kettlebell swing, etc).

    If you're daring & very strong, you could also try doing a plank or push-ups with one arm!

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