I was a distance runner in high school and college (rather a good one too) and about 3-4 months ago decided to start getting back into it as part of my attempts to get fit again. I started slow with one of those Couch-to-5K apps, and it's been really satisfying slowly getting better again.
However: About 2 months ago I started having some arch and heel pain—the dreaded plantar fasciitis. Rest and calf/ankle stretches made it go away fairly quickly, plus the added benefit of a week where I had the flu so was almost entirely off my feet, and it was never really terrible—usually just tightness in the morning that was pretty manageable. However after all that rest with 0 pain, I started running again this week, and holy cow is it back with a vengeance. I can hardly walk in the mornings, I limp around pathetically and running is definitely out of the question.
Beyond calf stretching and buying better cushioned shoe inserts, my doctor told me the best thing to do would be lose more weight. (As if I wasn't already working on that, jerk. I'm down 13lbs since December, another 20 to go. BMI currently ~27.) Anyhow, how can I lose weight and stay active when I'm required to rest my legs and feet? I feel so frustrated, and I was just starting to get excited about chipping away at my mile time.
I do not have a gym membership, so suggesting machines is sadly not an option. I've been running 3 days a week, going to a ballet class once a week, and using FitStar another 2-3 days.
Any suggestions for activity while struggling with plantar fasciitis welcome, as well as any tips you have for recovery!
