5 Ways to Keep Fit When Using Crutches

When you have surgery or injure your foot or ankle, you may worry about being in the non-weight bearing state for an extended period of time. Whether you like to run, swim, or stay active in other ways, you don’t want your situation to keep you from staying as fit as possible. Though you will have to change your regular work out routine, there are still ways to stay fit, even on your crutches. Here are a few examples.

Walk

It might sound silly, but walking is a great way to burn off calories and keep yourself fit when you are on crutches. It is hard to get around on crutches. It takes more energy too. It will be physically taxing at first, but once you get used to it, you will burn off anything you eat. Plus, walking is a good way to keep yourself from getting stiff from sitting around too long.

Lift

Since you are sitting more often, you have a great opportunity to work on your arm muscles by lifting weights. You will want your arms to be strong to help you get around on your crutches anyway. Building muscle burns fat faster and you will see the effects even after your recovery is complete.

Core Work

One of the most important parts of your body to shape is your core. The core work can easily be done in the sitting or lying position. Working out the core can help strengthen your back muscles as well and help you get around easier on crutches. It can also help you feel better about sitting around more.

Physical therapy

Your injury might require some physical therapy in order for you to heal properly. You can use these same exercises with an injured foot or after foot surgery to help yourself keep from getting stiff and to keep yourself as fit as possible during the recovery process. Make sure you do the movements slowly and in a precise manner. And never do too much in one sitting.

Eat Healthy

One of the wisest things you can do to keep yourself fit when you are on crutches is to eat in a healthy manner. Your body needs the right nutrients in order to heal, and by eating healthy, you will stay fit as well. Fill up on fruits and vegetables and snack on nuts and grain-filled bars. Drink a lot of water too, and you are well on your way to staying healthy and fit during recovery.