Conditioning while injured?

lukey · 10-15-2009, 03:40 PM

Hey sherdog, i had a search and couldnt find what i was looking for but if this has been covered feel free to post up the link and lock up the thread!

Long story short, i have recieved ligament damage to my right ankle after a fight last thursday. I am in good shape right now but fear my conditioning and weight will suffer bigtime while my ankle is recovering. Has anybody got a few tips for me to try out while the recovery process is on going?

El Beebo · 10-15-2009, 04:27 PM

Arms-only swimming might help you stay in good shape, if you have access to a pool. You can even vary the intensity of your workouts, so in theory you wouldn't lose much fitness. Can you put any weight on the ankle?

lukey · 10-15-2009, 04:56 PM

Swimmings not a bad idea at all, thanks. Its not something I'd usually do as part of my training but now that I think about it,it could be a lifesaver over the next couple weeks for me! As for putting weight on it, yes I can while stationary but try to put full weight on it while walking is a no-no.

Keep the ideas coming, very much appreciated.

SamBruin7 · 10-15-2009, 05:13 PM

Sound like a serious injury to me. Have you seen an ortho yet?
I wouldn't even swim on it because flutter kicking might actually make it worse.

lukey · 10-15-2009, 05:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SamBruin7

Sound like a serious injury to me. Have you seen an ortho yet?
I wouldn't even swim on it because flutter kicking might actually make it worse.

I saw a doctor the night it happened, I got confirmation there was no brake only damage to the ligament.

Has anybody experience in doing a low impact work out with a injured leg/foot? All tips/ideas welcome

El Beebo · 10-15-2009, 07:14 PM

The only other options I can think of require equipment. The Schwinn aerodyne exercise bikes are nice because you can put your feet on the pegs and only use the handles. Similarly, there are rowing machines (if you can handle pushing off with your foot).

Also there are those upper body ergometers (they look like stationary bicycles for your hands/arms)...I've ignored the one at my gym for years thinking that it was for rehab, but I decided a few months ago to start doing intervals on it, and it's a brutal workout.

Also, regarding swimming, you don't have to flutter kick if you don't want to. Most people can keep their head above water without using their feet. I rehabbed a broken leg in the pool for months like that.

Timbaland · 10-15-2009, 08:26 PM

Yea I think it depends on how badly the foot is injured. If the ligament is partly torn, which I had happen to my ankle playing basketball, you shouldn't do anything. But I'd suggest swimming and rowing if they don't hurt your foot.

lukey · 10-16-2009, 05:01 AM

Going for a swim today guys, I'll post up how it went in awhile

Revok · 10-16-2009, 10:03 AM

10lb sledgehammer + tyre. Tabata rounds. Go.

EndoGlo · 10-16-2009, 10:10 AM

I would typically say to hit the heavy bag, but if you take an awkward step you might only make things worse. I think swimming is a good solution. If you can do a bag without much movement, it can be a great cardio workout. I know sometimes, when I'm really getting it, I may make a bad step and throw myself off.