I got firsthand experience recently helping someone figure out working out with a broken foot. It's important to stay active even while injured. When you are active, you get increased blood flow which promotes healing. You'll also keep the rest of your body fit and healthy while you wait to heal.
A few weeks ago my boyfriend broke his foot, leaving him to hobble around on crutches. Needless to say, this seriously interrupted his exercise routine! Rather than become deconditioned, we made adjustments to the exercise routine.
Looking on the bright side, there are a few benefits (if you can call them that!) to walking on crutches. Walking with crutches is more cardio-intensive than walking on your own two feet, i.e. a 150 lb. person on crutches burns approximately 340 calories per hour, versus an able 150 lb. person walking at a moderate 3 mph (walking-the-dog) pace, burns about 225 calories/hour.
Just as important as all of the above is STRETCHING. Every day, perform overall body stretches for 10 minutes before you get out of bed in the morning, and stretch in the bed for 10 minutes before you go to sleep. Stretching promotes blood flow and healing. It also feels really good! See some stretching tutorials here.
Also, sound nutrition really promotes healing. During the healing process, the body needs increased amounts of calories, protein, vitamins A and C, and sometimes the mineral zinc. Be sure your diet or supplement routine covers these components. Book an appointment with a Nutritionist if you aren't sure how you are doing in that area.
Broken foot aside, please don’t get discouraged - before you know it, you’ll be back once again on both your feet! And any workouts you manage to do while you're waiting for your body to heal will really pay off!
Most of our trainers have already had to work out with a boot or cast! I know I have! Get a Price Quote on a session where you can learn your own home workout routine, conducted via Zoom or Facetime or in person in select locations. We also offer in-person visits in select locations. You can always book a Free 15-minute Consultation if you want help in discovering what you need.
Check out our new book Change Your Weighs where we cover all types of tips and tricks that you can learn while your body is in healing mode!