Now that I'm back on track and focusing on losing my regain, I really want some sort of attainable measurable goal to work towards. I generally do better with all things when I have something to work toward.

I have never really been athletic but was a runner with my hubs many years ago. I blew out my leg/ankle area and can't run anymore.

I am looking for something that would help me become strong and won't break the bank. not sure if that involves lifting, swimming, martial arts, etc. But I would love something that is beginner-friendly AND involves some form of competition to eventually get involved with (again, running isn't my thing anymore).

I was told that warrior dash was fun, but that involves running in mud and i'm afraid i could fall and blow out my leg again.

any suggestions?

All of the above. Weights, some aerobics, can you bike? You can do a bike in the gym. There are tons of things to do now: pylometrics.

Swimming is excellent. It is not only a resistance exercise but you can combine it with weights to help. It works all the muscles especially if you do all the strokes.

Do you have a gym near you that offers classes? I would suggest finding one and sampling several different types of classes. You may find something that you really love, or at the very least, figure out what type of exercise appeals to you the most. For people with knee issues, I usually suggest aquatics classes, fwiw.

Now that I'm back on track and focusing on losing my regain, I really want some sort of attainable measurable goal to work towards. I generally do better with all things when I have something to work toward.

I have never really been athletic but was a runner with my hubs many years ago. I blew out my leg/ankle area and can't run anymore.

I am looking for something that would help me become strong and won't break the bank. not sure if that involves lifting, swimming, martial arts, etc. But I would love something that is beginner-friendly AND involves some form of competition to eventually get involved with (again, running isn't my thing anymore).

I was told that warrior dash was fun, but that involves running in mud and i'm afraid i could fall and blow out my leg again.

any suggestions?

If the warrior dash is anything like Spartan or tough muddier yeah probably not the best thing for injuries. My sister had just gotten back to running after IT band issues and dislocated her knee when we did Spartan and she was back in rehab for another year or more.

If you find a GOOD cross fit place that doesn't glorify pain & injury and works hard on form that might be a good fit. They have all levels of competition including beginner so if that is what motivates you that's a thought. Summing for sure... Biking. I love yoga but that's about as non competitive as you can get!

I would advise you to start with Water aerobics. You can get a great workout without stressing your knees and ankles. Water weights are made of foam and provides lots of resistance. Get into a class so you need to be there at a specific time.

Just going to the gym when you feel motivated ends up being never there.

You will want a comfortable swimsuit and drainable water shoes. The shoes will support your leg, knees and ankles and make being injured much less likely. It is not competitive but a good instructor will have lots of routines to keep things interesting.

http://www.zappos.com/columbia-drainmaker-iii-oyster-tango-pink

Whatever you decide to do......be careful.

Allow the proper time to learn the ropes and build the muscle and condition the connective tissue to avoid injuries.

Having to take out to heal an injury is no fun and will drive you nuts.

Possibly with losing weight and getting healthier, your leg/ankle has become stronger and healed. Why not begin with getting it evaluated? Maybe you aren't as limited anymore. At the very least, the doctor could advise you of what you can do and what to avoid.

Edited September 19, 20169 yr by TheRealMeIsHere!

yes, good point. I saw my orthopod last year. after I had lost a lot of my weight and he didn't make any specific reference to the strength of it, just that it looked good. Initially when I broke it almost 20 years ago, I was told I would probably not be able to run again.