Dealing with a broken toe — how can I still work out?

T

tryingzen

Explorer
Joined
Feb 25, 2026
Messages
26
Reaction score
50
Location
Reno, NV
Hey all.

A couple weeks back I broke the big toe on my right foot, and because the nail got traumatized, it had to be removed.

Since the break happened, I've done zero exercise.

I don't want a toe to be the reason I stop working out. The problem is that until my toenail bed heals, closed toe shoes are off the table — nothing can press against the nail — and my gait is off too, so I've been walking on the side of my foot instead of pushing off through my toes like normal.

No closed toe shoes means no gym, so home workouts are my only option. Walking is slow and clumsy at the moment. I do have weights at home, but I'm stuck on what to actually do when I can't put any pressure on the toe.

Maybe this is a silly question and I'm overthinking it — but what kind of workout can I do with a broken toe?
 
Seated dumbbell curls, band push and pull anchored to the door, seated arm raises. When you stay seated, core, arms, shoulders and back are all very doable. It won't be a gym level experience, but you will be exercising.

While weight bearing was an issue for me, I gave a few of these workouts a try. They kicked my ass


https://youtube.com/@chairfitcamp?si=wJvAFFHgQugJZpg2
 
Could cycling work if you push through the middle of your foot rather than close to the toes? I often ride in open toed shoes, even if that isn't the safest option.
 
I don't have any advice to offer, but I really hope your recovery is quick and full. A broken toe is just the worst.
 
ColdSmoke said:

Seated dumbbell curls, band push and pull anchored to the door, seated arm raises. When you stay seated, core, arms, shoulders and back are all very doable. It won't be a gym level experience, but you will be exercising.

While weight bearing was an issue for me, I gave a few of these workouts a try. They kicked my ass


https://youtube.com/@chairfitcamp?si=wJvAFFHgQugJZpg2
Click to expand...

Chair workouts — what a great idea! That never would have crossed my mind. Thanks so much!
 
City Badger said:

Could cycling work if you push through the middle of your foot rather than close to the toes? I often ride in open toed shoes, even if that isn't the safest option.
Click to expand...
I appreciate the idea, but there's no bike at my place. Could one of those under-the-desk pedal devices work? That way I'd be able to keep up with some cardio.
 
Enyola said:


Exercises on a mat are something you could do for your lower body as well. Those on all foors, hands an knees, may not work yet, but those lying/leaning on your side and lifting leg in various way. Situps of course, if you only put your heels to the ground or do those where the feet are in the air anyway. Side planks between hand/elbow and knee.

Click to expand...
Click to expand...
Appreciate the ideas. As another poster mentioned, I'm considering concentrating on core work for the time being.
 
Back
Top