Expert: Bonnie Hardie - 3/2/2010

Question
Hi,
Two weeks ago I had reconstructive surgery on my ankle. I have orders for "no weight bearing" on my ankle for another two weeks at least. In 2009, I lost 45 pounds by changing my eating habits and exercising. Over the past two weeks, I have gained 5 pounds and I know it's because I'm exercising. I'm still eating healthy and I have reduced my calorie intact since I'm pretty much doing nothing to burn the calories. Are there any exercises that I can do to get my heart rate up without injuring my ankle. What can I do in a sitting situation, or on laying on the floor?
I really do not want to gain this weight back, and even when I can put weight on the ankle, it will be with a cast for several more weeks.
Thank you,
Angela

Answer
Hi Angela,
You can do upperbody and abdominal exercises.
Sitting in a chair you can do the following arm exercises with dumbbells:
bicep curl
tricep extension
lateral raise
front raise
shrug
shoulder press.
Ab exercises while lying down can include
crunches
bicycles
leg lifts
seated torso twists.
Good luck with your ankle,
Thank you,
Bonnie