What to do when you can't exercise?

Ok, here's the deal.  Since surgery I have been very faithful about exercise ( 5 to 6 days per week, strength training, increasing time/intensity).  It has become an integral part of my life, and a time of day that I truly enjoy.

Fast forwrd to today and my podiatrist appointment...... I was diagnosed with osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone tissue), put in a surgical shoe and told to put my gym membership on hold for 2 months.  I asked about doing upper body only and was told they don't want my heart rate going up for fear that the bacteria could travel in my blood stream. 

So, my question is what can I do to compensate for the lack of movement?  I have an appointment with my surgeon on Wednesday and will post the same question to him, but thought I would try to get some ideas here first.

Thanks in advance for any good ideas!

Reenie

Can you swim? Do some kind of pilates or yoga... though I guess that puts you on your feet too.

I'd hook up with a nutritionist and look to decrease your calories enough to make up the difference so you can keep losing.

Can you get in a pool? i guess thats the least impact on your foot.. and you could just very gingerly move around so you don't get your heart rate up too high?

Like Elena said... yoga or pilates too... you could do mat work where you aren't on your feet...

My only thought was yoga.  Couldn't you do some upper body with weights and move slowly, wear a heart rate monitor and just be careful not to go over whatever rate the doc says?

This is serious stuff! It is good that you are seeking answers from your doctors. As much as I would be tempted to try to exercize while not being on my foot, it is apparent that that is not the only concern...bacteria entering your heart is SERIOUS stuff! Focus on getting in LOTS of water and protein. Work with your bariatric team while you are in the early healing stages with your foot.

Cheryl

not sure Reenie.  There is an excerise forum here on OH, someone there might have an idea

Thank you everyone for the good ideas.  I will be very careful and follow the advice of all the docs involved.  I'm hoping the healing process will go smoothily and that I will be back at the gym in not too long!

Reenie