Cross training for Swimmers?

Question

I just "badly strained" my rotator cuff. I was wondering if there was anything besides swimming and running.

Answer 1

G'Day,

I've been swimming competitively for about ten years now and around two years ago I injured my shoulder badly.
While I was out of the water I took up both yoga and pilates. I know this sounds pretty stupid and I was hesitant at first but once I Got into it it proved really beneficial. It's not all meditation stuff some of it is quite strenuous but gentle on my injury at the same time.

I know both the Australian and American national teams take away a yoga instructor when they go overseas so if the best are doing it than it has to have some merit.

Good luck with it and give them a go!

Answer 2

After a few rotator injuries and alot of other shoulder issues, one of which resulted in surgery, I can confidently say that yes, there is something besides swimming and running!

- Aqua jogging basically combines both swimming and running only without the impact fo running or the stress on the shoudlers of swimming.

- Spinning classes can be awesome cardio and very challenging and you are not really moving so there is no ned to put stress on the joint during class, you just have to adjust your positioning to allow for that.

- Ballet is great for the lower body and is very low impact on the upper body in the beginning stages. It works the core like a monster and helps with balance, agility, muscle mass and coordination.

- Yoga is low-impact and can help you relax, tone muscle and create core strength

- Kickball is a great way to stay in shape, requires little arm use other than the occasional throw which you can do with the other arm and is increasingly popular among adults in the US.

- Step aerobics can be done with a shoulder injury so long as you avoid overusing the injured arm.

Ask your doctor or PT for other activites, they always have good suggestions!!!

Good luck and feel better ( =