How to get my cardio done when I can't do impact exercises.

[jeannied]

I had two hip replacements a year ago Jan. I am not permitted to do any impatct aerobics. I have a hard time getting my heart rate up on the elliptical and the treadmill. I am still having problems with my flexbility in one leg. The muscles are too tight. Who would ever think that would be a probem; too tight muscles? I would appreciate any suggestions out there on how to improve my cardio indurances.

 

[Stebby]

Are you able to swim?

Stebby

 

[sarahbl]

I have the same problem but mine is due to Spinal Stenosis. I make sure that I stretch everyday. Helps alot. I also take the high impact and make the low with larger arm movements and and instead os just marching in place I MARCH IN PLACE. You have to move within your own range but try to make your low impact movements a little larger and sometimes I use 1pound hand weights. But please check with Dr. and use your own abilities, but don't give up!!!!!

 

[RapidBreath]

Weighted vest? Incline on the treadmill?

 

[jdimascio]

How about stationary bike...or recumbent bike? You can change the intensity and do intervals. The bike eliminates added weight on your joints. I know cardio equipment can be boring, but it's a start until flexibility improves.

 

[kariev]

how about a mini trampolene? I know that my breathing is challenged on them and you can find them super cheap

 

[kathryn]

Spinning or using a Versa Climber (a pricey piece of equipment, but IMO it would do the trick) or a rowing machine (like the Concept rower) would be non-impact ways of doing high-intensity cardio. The Versa climber and rower could also improve your flexibility, and even the leg movement on a stationary bike would be more than that for a treadmill or an eliptical.

You could also increase the intensity by increasing the incline on the treadmill and working on walking faster.

 

[2121]

My dad has bad knees. He holds small handweights while using the treadclimber. He gets his heartrate up pretty good. Hope this helps. Melissa

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

I hope you are feeling better with each and every day Jeannied! I will tell you what works great but it involves having a heavy bag and gloves. Boxing!!! If you get gloves and strike an actual bag, your heart rate will soar sky high. You will last no more than 5 minutes tops too if you hit the bag non stop with high intensity. So try to just box with a gentle approach for 20 minutes and you will BE AMAZED at the sweat you will break. I did this after my knee surgery and it worked like a charm. Good Luck!

I had two hip replacements a year ago Jan. I am not permitted to do any impatct aerobics. I have a hard time getting my heart rate up on the elliptical and the treadmill. I am still having problems with my flexbility in one leg. The muscles are too tight. Who would ever think that would be a probem; too tight muscles? I would appreciate any suggestions out there on how to improve my cardio indurances.