Toning with handicaps

lythiam
lythiam Posts: 32
in Fitness and Exercise
I can't do much thanks to my hip. I was born with congenital hip dysplasia, and since my surgeries fifteen years ago (I was 10, am 25), I've found that a lot of great exercises and workout videos hurt my leg too much to stay committed to (like Jillian's Michael's videos, which really bums me out). I just want to be firm and sexy, is that so much to ask? I eat like a pigeon, but am still flabby and bigger than I should be because I can't do much. Does anyone have any suggestions for me?

Replies

  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    It sounds like you should be able to do pretty much any upper body exercises (tons of videos on youtube for dumbbells routines etc) but I'm thinking that you may want to arrange a couple of sessions with a physiotherapist (or similar) who can provide you with some guidance if you have a hip and /or leg pain/problems. (Maybe swimming / biking if the pain is related to weight bearing activities?)

    The last thing I'd want to do is suggest something that makes things worse for you.
  • lythiam
    lythiam Posts: 32
    I forgot to add, I can't go to a PT, it's a long story, but really, I can't leave my baby with anyone, and can't bring her with me to PT, either. I have a notebook of all of her medical records, blood tests, etc., and the first few pages are lists of what could make her need a trip to the ER (such as a fever of over 100, or if she's too yellow, etc), and what she can't eat, and all of this stuff that I think would be too much for anyone who's not a nurse, pretty much, and it's just a huge hassle, blah.

    Maybe I will try biking. I mean, the worst that can happen is I have to stop.
  • yallcallmedeb
    yallcallmedeb Posts: 294
    I have seen 1 or 2 workout DVDs geared towards individuals in wheelchairs.

    You could try shadow boxing with lightweight dumbbells. I would think that swimming would be a good choice for you. How do you do with walking? Long walks pushing a stroller can certainly be a good workout.

    I'm sad to read you saying that you have pain SINCE your surgery. It seems to me that should not be. Perhaps a visit to a good orthopod would be beneficial.

    I wish that there were more fitness videos geared towards individuals with disabilities. There really is such a need for it out there because this population tends to have weight problems at least partially due to their physical disability and the problems that it poses them in exercising!

    Best of luck to you and your sweet baby!
  • TinnedTuna
    TinnedTuna Posts: 208 Member
    I know it's difficult,
    I only have one leg so i'm pretty much restricted to upper body stuff but i need to get my stomach down but i'm struggling a bit so i will be interested in the answers to. hope you find something.

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