4 Cardio Options When You Can’t Run

It finally happened. I knew I had been pushing myself way too hard with little rest and irresponsible training. I knew that attempting to complete the St. Louis Rock ‘n Roll Half Marathon without running more than 3 miles at a time for the months leading up to the race that I was tempting fate. Two weeks ago I ran my race, held back tears as mile 13 battered my legs and rejoiced that the days following the half marathon I was not as sore as I imagined I would be. I thought I had gotten away with it.

Fast forward or rewind, however you want to look at it, to last week. A gnawing, ever-increasing pain in my Achilles Tendon, began to interfere with my running. In fact, an easy 3 mile treadmill run turned into a fire in my ankle that is almost indescribable, but the awful truth was evident. I had been sidelined by my Achilles Tendon. Goodbye running for at least the next two months.

What to do now? I worked so hard to build up my cardio base, to build strength in my legs. I can’t imagine two months of letting all that hard work be for nothing. So, I went in search of other cardio that will help me keep and build my cardio base. If you are a runner and have been sidelined by an Achilles Tendon injury, consider these cardio options to keep you in prime condition until you are ready to run again. As always make sure you consult your doctor.

Precor EFX® CrossRamp® Technology

I heart this machine! In fact, I think I love it as much as running. Among its many benefits it:

• Reduces impact on joints
• Emulates changing workout conditions
• Provides a full body workout targeting the arms, chest, glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves

I find that my pace doesn’t quite match my running pace … yet. But the potential is there!

Exerpeutic Folding Pulse Monitor Magnetic Upright Bike

Available at Overstock.com this is a cardio machine that provides the least amount of pressure on the Achilles Tendon. Plus, if you do not have gym membership you can purchase this bike relatively inexpensively for $159.00. And . . . one more plus? This bike folds so you can tuck it away in an obscure place when you are done working out.

Swimming

Swimming is a full-body cardiovascular exercises that is pleasurable and seems less like working out and more like a day at the beach. Okay, yes! I am exaggerating a little. But swimming is easy on your joints which makes this a preferred option for many sidelined runners, especially those experiencing joint pain.

Spin Classes

Do you belong to a gym? If so, consider a spin class. Stationary bikes like the one I mentioned above are fantastic, but if you are planted in front of the television pedaling away you tend to get caught up in the show and not the workout. A spin class is challenging, builds muscles tone, increases your cardio base and is a social outlet.

If you are a runner that is used to running with the pack, you could have social withdrawals  This is the perfect option to continue to exercise with a group of people who share the same values as you.

Have you been sidelined with a running injury? What did you do to keep you legs and cardio strong?