How to get more cardio in when I have a stupid swollen ankle

sugarbugger
sugarbugger Posts: 45
edited September 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
I injured my ankle whilst drunk about 10-12 years ago, and it plays up every now and then when I try to do more walking. I'm nearly 300lbs so obviously I know it's my weight more than anything which is irritating the joint, and the only way to ease the pressure is to lose weight, but cardio is a bit of a problem. I walk several days a week at least 60-100 minutes, quite slowly although I'm trying to get faster, and I did start doing the Leslie Sansone mile walk video, but the day after I did it my ankle, foot and lower calf just ballooned so I could barely get my shoe on, and obviously it's a bit painful to walk on.

What can I do to get some cardio while avoiding irritating my ankle too much? Or should I just work through it?

Replies

  • Hottness4Lyfe
    Hottness4Lyfe Posts: 321 Member
    If you have access to a pool swimming is a great exercise. Plus it's not as hard on the legs as some other exercises..
  • diverchic73
    diverchic73 Posts: 314 Member
    I second the pool recommendation.
  • PrfctGdess
    PrfctGdess Posts: 257
    The pool is the best idea. Or maybe get a punching bag? (Or just punch the air and pretend you have one :P ). You should be able to get your heart rate up that way without moving your legs/ankle much.
  • ProTFitness
    ProTFitness Posts: 1,379 Member
    Make sure your eating foods that helo fight inflamation. Wrap it or put a brace on it till it gets stronger. Pool exercise would be great. DOnt let it hold you back. Find what you can do and it will get better and stronger the more you move eat right and loose weight
  • cherubcrnp
    cherubcrnp Posts: 717 Member
    I think the pool is a great way to get cardio. Just wondering...have you seen an orthopedic surgeon about your ankle...especially one that specializes in sports medicine. There may be something physiologically wrong that is causing the problems you are having. If you did, but it was 12 years ago, seeing one now might be in order...great strides in sports medicine have occurred.

    Pam
    aka Cherubcrnp
  • twooliver
    twooliver Posts: 450 Member
    It's important to not cause more injury here! Try the kettlebell! or the pool! it's possible that the elliptical would work too...
  • rhomor
    rhomor Posts: 39
    If you don't have access to the pool or elliptical you can try punches. They can actually be great cardio. Spread your feet and get into a squat-ish position and punch out keeping your core tight and bringing your arms across your body. Remember to breathe and before you know it you will be sweating and your heart rate will be up without much strain on your ankle.
  • sugarbugger
    sugarbugger Posts: 45
    Thanks everyone! it sounds like I'll have to dig out my swimming costume <cries> The punching exercise sounds a good one to try, thanks a lot. What do you do with a kettlebell? I've no idea!
  • twooliver
    twooliver Posts: 450 Member
    Ahhh the kettlebell is a total body workout...start with 10/15 lbs...get the one that comes with a DVD or get Jillian Michaels DVD! Very effective!
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