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Elliptical Machine as run training?

Jeff BraatenJeff Braaten
in General Training Discussions

 Near the end of October I am going to have to have an Anterior Cervical Fusion of C5-6. My neurosurgeon has told me I can bike and swim as soon as I feel up to it but no running for 6 weeks but could do the elliptical. Has anyone had any experience with these in terms of maintaining run fitness?

Comments

  • DanielaDaniela
    We have a stepmill (http://stairmaster.com/products/sm916-stepmill/) at our gym, and I use that whenever I'm unable to run because of injury. I think it crosses over better then the elliptical. However, the elliptical is better then nothing. I've also tried aqua jogging, and I couldn't mentally get through those sessions.
  • Spokane_AlSpokane_Al
    Aqua jogging is terrific if your goal is to make time stand still.
  • rodfunctionrodfunction
    I had to do the same thing after back surgery. I tried to keep the RPMs up, even if that meant decreasing resistance. The bike/eliptical combo kept me from going crazy. I did lose a little speed, but came back quickly. The biggest thing I noticed was the muscle soreness after starting running again. But that also went away quickly.

    Just try to go slow. Don't want to risk a non fusion by pushing it to early.
  • Bruce ThompsonBruce Thompson

    I've used the elliptical over the years to come back from injuries and to supplement my running miles when I didn't want to pound my knees.  It can be a great total body workout since you also engage your arm, back muscles.  When coming back from injury I just substitue it for running workouts 3-4 days/week, then gradually  shift back to running.  I've found it helps keep your cardio conditioning at the pre-injury level, but I did get slightly sore quads when starting running again.    It just doesn't simulate the pounding you get from running, which is actually a good thing  when coming back from an injury.  Also, I could read the newspaper while doing this so able to get more done. I suggest give it try and see how you like it.

  • John StarkJohn Stark
    Posted By Al Olsen on 24 Sep 2011 12:09 AM

    Aqua jogging is terrific if your goal is to make time stand still.



    So true, Al!  

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    Sounds like we have cornered the market on mind-numbing ways to stay fit!!!!
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