Keep "running" stamina without running?

[NESTR]

First of all, I was close to regraduating after Covid, had repeated the 25min 6 times 😁😁 and one 28min run.

However, 2 days ago I had to go to the ER with lower abdominal pain, turns out to be a larger ovarian cyst/mass, unfortunately not a simple one...so while I have to wait one week for the results of diverse tumor marker blood levels...I have been told by two different doctors that I can absolutely not go running until this resolves. Which they think, if it's a benign thing, a matter of a few months.

So....what is the best way to maintain fitness? Obviously, the question whether I will or won't have to start from scratch with Cto5K should not be my greatest worry right now. However, logically, at this point it should be more important than ever to really focus on fitness. What is the best low-impact replacement for running, and, if I can only walk briskly, how long would be a match for 25 minutes of running? I already used to walk 15 minutes warm up and cool down...three times a week, on non-running days go for an hour long walk.

Thank you so much for any support in advance!!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

The NHS recommendation is to do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week.

This info came from here nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/e...

Walking is good but try to include some resistance training to develop muscle strength.

Celebrate what you can do and I am sure you will be back running soon.

Take care.

[NESTR Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for the advice...based on that I will be able to combine a good exercise schedule without running.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

If you can access a gym, then the elliptical (cross-trainer) is perfect for you.

Rowing also came to mind, but with the position and movement, maybe the doctors would advise against it.

[NESTR Graduate in reply to John_W]

Thank you! I had not thought of an elliptical since I have never used one. This would also be great for rainy or very hot days and when I don't have anyone to watch the kids...even when I can run again. I will get a used one, already found a couple of offers 😁.