What exercise: I used to enjoy swimming... - Weight Loss Support

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What exercise

maggie10al profile image
18 Replies

I used to enjoy swimming/going to the gym, but I now have a 30 mile round trip to do this, so it just isn't going to happen. I then started to do a lot of walking including plenty of hills, but that is now too painful as I am going to have to have a hip replacement. Any ideas what would be suitable exercise for me to do? I do pilates at home, but could do with some aerobic exercise.

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maggie10al
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18 Replies
tootsiepops profile image
tootsiepops

I use an exercise bike because I have a crumbling hip. This form of exercising has low impact on your joints. I am seeing definition on my legs after just 6 weeks. I use my bike for 30 mins every second day, usually while watching TV. I also do some lifting with dumbells, 3 times a week. You can work your upper body sitting on the couch. I'm 61 and my jiggly arms are getting firmer daily. Found it a struggle at first, but I love my exercise routine now.

Good luck with your op.

maggie10al profile image
maggie10al in reply to tootsiepops

thank you tootsiepops, I think that a bike is a good idea, will try and borrow one see how I get on with it. p.s. I am also 61

Burrfoot1980 profile image
Burrfoot1980

My local gym to something called sit and.get fit... If you have the time and it's suitable give it a go alternatively it's something you might be able to do at home to a dvd or YouTube.

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMe

The NHS provides a programme called Strength and Flexibility which you do via podcasts over 5 weeks and then maintain repeating the Week 5 podcast from time to time, and yes, cycling might be an idea (how about outside as that produces a lot of other benefits? I have an electric bicycle which has made all the difference to me - you have to pedal to get any battery assist)

kennygirl profile image
kennygirl

Where do you live? That a long way to get to a swimming pool?

nicky0512 profile image
nicky0512

you are in a difficult situation and i find myself in a similar predicament - i need a knee replacement soon. However i sought help from my gp as the gym was not an option anymore and we agreed that seeking support from a physiotherapist was best. I waited for only 3 weeks and have been receiving advice and therapy for exercise and in particular my knee. I don't know if this would also benefit you? My weight loss will be a lot slower, but at least i can do it relatively pain free now. Hope this helps and good luck x

maggie10al profile image
maggie10al

Hi Kennyboy, I am in the north east of Scotland and a 30 mile round trip especially in winter just isn't going to happen!

kennygirl profile image
kennygirl in reply to maggie10al

Oh dear! I am lucky to live near everything, but a bike perhaps? Even an exercise bike and exercise videos? I am also lucky to be pain/ health problem free! Good luck with your weight loss journey tho!

kennygirl profile image
kennygirl in reply to maggie10al

Oh dear! I am lucky to live near everything, but a bike perhaps? Even an exercise bike and exercise videos? I am also lucky to be pain/ health problem free! Good luck with your weight loss journey tho!

I'm really over weight and wanted something low impact for home as I can't find the right shoes for comfortable walking at the mo (really annoying size 8 &wide feet). I asked my husband to find me an excercise bike as he's always on eBay or gumtree etc. An hour later he'd found one for £10 and 10minutes from our house. Since I've used it lots and definitely got money's worth. I'm only allowed to keep it if I use it and don't turn it into a clothes horse which is helpful motivation. I either listen to music or watch tv as it can get boring like anything repetitive :-)

kennygirl profile image
kennygirl in reply to

Well done! Good idea! Carry on cycling!

katedaniels profile image
katedaniels in reply to

Have you tried Karrimor? I had 9 stone to lose so very overweight with the wide feet that comes with it and needed support, I was in Sports Direct one day and they had a sale on and got a very comfy pair for under £30, they are wide with a rounded toe so no rubbing. Also got some running socks to go with them, they have extra padding around the heel and toes so that helps with the support.

in reply to katedaniels

Thanks will have a look. Have had wide feet since I was a little kid and they grew from 7 to an 8 when I was pregnant with my son. Four years on and I've barely found a nice shoe to fit so fingers crossed. :-)

returner profile image
returner

Hi maggie10al,

You'll probably be really surprised by this, but the old BullworkerX5 will allow you to do quite a range of exercises - both isometric and isotonic - and you may well still find them on ebay for a reasonable sort of price. I found it really useful for generally toning up - you can use it for all the major muscle groups - and especially for getting those abs into shape.

Scola13 profile image
Scola13

Check into getting some home equipment and your insurance is paying for it

maggie10al profile image
maggie10al

Hi Aquahol, thought what a good idea an exercise bike on Ebay, but problem is where I live, nearest one 3 hours drive away!

kennygirl profile image
kennygirl

Keep looking, they turn up all the time!

I can imagine it would be a long drive. Any local (ish) shops with cards in the window or notice boards? They'd be worth a go :-)

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