12 replies to this topic

[AndrewB]

To cut it short I'm on a circuit weight training program that starts off with calisthenics, then free weights.. I need to find some type of cardio exercise that doesn't involve my arms, I can crank a handcycle almost indefinitely, but i fear it is going to be too much on my arms long term, I can walk, but not enough to get any good cardiovascular benefits out of it.

basically I'm looking for something i can do, Low impact, not involving my arms on off days from my weight training, which is pretty much impossible i guess. <---- i always wanted to use that lil guy right there

[Wheelsonfire]

In relation the handcycle, there are ones you can get(stationary) that have different levels of resistance, that won't have you using it indefinitely.(when used right, it will burn and build)

Depending on the strength in your quads, think of a stationary bike, peddle at ease and build the leg muscle also.

To get involved in martial arts is another, by practising hand movements at speed will get the ticker going.(no strain, but all the benefits)

To train with weights(no matter if it's for bulk or toning) cardio is best done afterwards as the body fat is stubborn to move and will shift faster as the body is well warmed up after your weight routine.

Regards

Edited by Wheelsonfire, 26 January 2010 - 05:18 PM.

[Tetracyclone]

Agree on the stationary bike. If you can walk you can probably use one. i got a Marcy recumbent because it is "step through", meaning you can sit first then position your legs. It took me a long time (4 months) before my feet stopped twisting in the footrests, bumping my ankle against the crank, but i kept at it and can now, after 8 months, get a good 30 minute workout before my legs spasm out or simply get too weak. $200.

[Trinity]

How about swimming? If you want to avoid your arms maybe using a swim float on your arms and propelling using your legs???

[Doodle]

Maybe try one of those recumbant bikes that you sit in like a normal recumbant handcycle but its leg power you use to get from AtoB, so not stationary!. Idk just an idea, I know they are pricey though, but worth a look on ebay or something similar.

[Ches]

Trin is so smart

[ericr]

I use a piece of equipment called a NUSTEP its like an oliptical but a sitting version. You use your arms and legs kinda like a ski machine also. Dont know how expensive they are, they maybe pretty expensive. Also look into a vitaglide this is still a arm machine however its better than a handle cycle and helps correct over rotation caused by pushing your chair. I hate a hand cycle and will never use one even if my life depended on it.

[bambam]

Try Wii boxing. I am a C6 and it get's my heart going. Watch out for your wheelchair backrest posts, they can rub your back raw. I get on the couch to avoid it. By the way, I use cheap masking tape to tape the controllers to my hands.

Edited by bambam, 17 January 2011 - 06:18 PM.

[MTB John]

I use a bike. I can still not pedal fast enough to actually turn on the machine yet as min resistance is too much. I am also trying to use a cross trainer but I get a lotof spasm in one leg which makes this difficult.
The Wii is great also as you can do this in standing which is great for improving your balance..

[beeful]

bambam, on 17 January 2011 - 06:17 PM, said:

Try Wii boxing. I am a C6 and it get's my heart going. Watch out for your wheelchair backrest posts, they can rub your back raw. I get on the couch to avoid it. By the way, I use cheap masking tape to tape the controllers to my hands.

Do you have to push any buttons to box or play tennis on Wii?

[nomis]

Oral sex with your partner above you. You can relax all your limbs, take the weight off them yet still get a strong cardio vascular workout and work up a good sweat. Beats me why it isn't more commonly promoted in gyms.

[Tetracyclone]

Nomis, I need more guidance to implement your idea. A video, perhaps?

[kamca]

I offer a seated cardio workout out my website. Each routine is 45-50min, and I put 2 classes up a week. It is self paced, so you can try it without resistance, or add hand/wrist weights for a greater challenge. I promise it'a workout! To give you an idea of weight to use - if you're in good shape start with 2lbs! Don't increase weight until you can make it through the full class without rest breaks. It's only $25/month, and it is month to month, so you really have nothing to lose ;)
kristin
scitotalfitness.com