Exercises that DONT engage the core?

missuswells
missuswells Posts: 35 Member
edited November 25 in Fitness and Exercise
I have a rare bladder condition called Interstitial Cystitis which is extremely painful and limits my ability to work, function, and most especially, get exercise. Any activity, especially walking, running, and standing, can cause me to have a bad pain flare. I have Pelvic Floor Dysfunction as well, and it contributes to the same issues.

I've lost 21lbs through diet changes, but I really want to become fitter. But the pain that most exercises cause is not worth the pain. Trying to exercise has caused me at times to miss work and function normally.

Low impact is best, so I thought to try Pilates, but it engages your core-as many exercises do. Engaging the core in exercise is not recommended when you have pelvic floor dysfunction. So, what are low impact exercises I can do that don't engage my core?? If I'm limited to upper body work alone, can I still lose weight, or at least get fitter?

Replies

  • jessef593
    jessef593 Posts: 2,272 Member
    Seated workouts mostly, but any time you put a load above your centre of gravity you're going to engage your core in Atleast a small amount. In order to stabilize your midsection and keep yourself from toppling over. Maybe surgery if it's an option?
  • middlehaitch
    middlehaitch Posts: 8,486 Member
    You could check out YouTube for seated exercises, arm work etc.
    Also, I don't know if your condition would allow it, but mild aqua fit, or water walking may be possible.
    Sorry, I can't think of more, it's surprising how much we use out abs without even noticing.

    Cheers, h.
  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,208 Member
    Strength training machines are notorious for not engaging the core much. In fact that's one of the reasons most people shouldn't use them as their sole method of strengthening.
    You'll need access to a gym for those.

    For cardio conditioning, an elliptical machine might work. Some models use the core more than others - you'll have to experiment.

    Weight loss? That doesn't require any movement at all - just a calorie reduction. :+1:

  • MaggotPig
    MaggotPig Posts: 89 Member
    Slightly different, but I've been having some gynae issues lately and the best thing I've found that don't aggravate my pain or cause more, is actually water based activity, so I've been doing plenty of swimming and aqua HIIT classes
  • dlm7507
    dlm7507 Posts: 237 Member
    You might want to ask your doctor to recommend a qualified physical therapist. Our body is one piece, we are not Frankenstein's monster. Since you "should" engage your core when exercising a regular coach probably won't have the right answer for you.
  • beachysunshine
    beachysunshine Posts: 4 Member
    Hello! I noticed your post is a bit older, but just in case you're in need of more suggestions, I have the same health conditions you have. I go to PT for the hypertonic floor. My therapist said yoga and spinning are perfectly safe as well as Zumba. No Pilates or anything that requires stability in your trunk (planks, leg exercises, any exercise extending the legs, mountain climbers, etc.) I'd like to friend you, but have no idea how to do so. You may also want to try the Therawand to massage your muscles internally.
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