Low Impact Cardio

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Low Impact Cardio
2
Sun, 06-19-2005 - 11:19pm

I weigh about 120 and am 5'7" tall and I know I'm not overweight, per se, but I'm not at all toned and, after being asked by a perfect stranger today if I was pregnant, I'm ready to do something about it.

I have most of the details worked out - yoga, eating better, drinking more water, etc. - but what I'm stumped on is cardio. I have scoliosis and had a reconstructive spinal fusion to help it (it didn't correct it). The things I can do that don't cause pain are limited. I can't do a lot of walking as my hips are uneven. Running is completely out, obviously. I can't swim and don't have regular access to a pool. I don't have a bike or anywhere really to ride one. Getting a bike or a pool membership are out because I just don't have that extra money. So, what to do for cardio? I know I need it and I know it will help me slim up but I don't know what to DO? Any ideas? Are there any low-impact cardio/ aerobic DVDs out there that someone might recommend? Thanks!

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." ~Gandhi

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
In reply to: wredd
Mon, 06-20-2005 - 6:59am

Hi, and welcome to our board!


Personally I think your best bet would be to talk to your doctor about what kind of workout they recommend for you. Here are some thoughts that I have however-


Yoga-- though great for toning, can also be a good cardio workout too.
Pilates-- same concept.
Water Aerobics-- if available to you.


There are a few low-impact exercise tapes out there. The Firm has one (Total Body: Low Impact

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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-04-2003
In reply to: wredd
Mon, 06-20-2005 - 1:10pm

I agree with IG, checking with the doctor should be your first step, and then check to see whether there are any shallow water aerobics classes even if you can only go once in a while.