I think it's time for me to join this group!

[ncrainbowgrrl]

Hi everyone!

I have had previous "issues" with weight... like mental health ones- earlier in my life. But, for the past, say, 10 years, I've been ok with my weight- it's been stable at about 120-125lbs. I have a partially torn ACL, so having to bare additional weight is akin to sitting there and slowly sawing back and forth with a butter knife on my ACL...

I was rear- ended almost a month ago on my way from work, and haven't been able to be as active as usual- ie- I'm not walking more than from the car parking lot at work to my desk (400 feet?) and from other parking lots to the doctor's office. I'm not eating more than before, just had a very fast metabolism and was active before- did some unicycling, lifted weights, etc. Now, due to the pain, I sit.
Starting to gain weight... and more weight... and 10 pounds on a small framed person is a lot- especially when the clothes that you actually can wear are getting fewer and fewer in your wardrobe. I'd hate to spend money to buy new clothing- especially since I want NO part of this weight to stick around.

I'm not supposed to move my upper body much. Does anyone have any ideas on some knee-friendly lower body movement that can be done- either at my desk or somewhere else? I definitely can't run- that's been a given for years. Swimming is out 'cause the chlorine in the pool gives me migraines!

Anyone? Ideas? thoughts, comments? Old stretchy pants that they can loan (just kidding!)

off to the doctor i go again. thanks for any and all feedback that y'all can give!

-ncrainbowgrrl

[Longhorn]

1. The first thing that comes to my mind is a recumbent exercise bike.

I'm thinking about getting one myself. However, you wouldn't be able to do that at your desk.

However, I recall seeing a little cycling gizmo, mainly designed for older folks, where you sit on your couch or chair and pedal. I wonder if something like that would help?

Like this:



http://www.firststreetonline.com/product.jsp?path=-1%7C7866&id=45349

Good luck! :hi:

[flvegan]

2. An elliptical machine would be easy on your legs and back

and you could keep your hands stationary, even with a machine that has the handles for your arms. Granted, this isn't at your desk, but you're not going to get a good cardio workout (pretty much regardless) at your desk anyway.

[Katherine Brengle]

4. The elliptical can actually cause more problems than it helps avoid -

the design is extremely flawed and long term consistent use can result in hip and other problems. Not to mention it's rather pitiful exercise.

A recumb. bike or other stationary bike would be a better option. Walking on a treadmill at a slight incline would also be better.

I'm not a big believer in the "work out at your desk" fad... I think you just have to make time.

:D

[Brewman_Jax]

3. Take time recovering

and do take care of the knee. I've seen people on crutches and in casts for simple accidents, like tripping on curbs, stairs, and other uneven surfaces. If you can, get the ACL checked and hopefully repaired. Not only will you be more stable, also that will give you more options for exercise.

For exercise, may I suggest learning taichi. Low-impact and very good for the mind and body and can be done almost anywhere and anytime. No extra equipment needed.