Staying fit while immobile

[Maxf]

Well that title sounds retarded, but here's the question:

I'm going in for a knee operation on Saturday and will be immobile (mostly) for a couple of weeks, then a couple of weeks with poor mobility and yet a few more weeks until I can start doing any light physical exercise.

I had managed to get myself into decent shape, and would consider myself the fittest I've been for 10 years. How can I maintain this while I'm tied to a bed? Just eat less? How can I stop/slow muscle wastage?

When I am able to get around I'm hoping to go to the gym just to use the upper body machines (lower body is a no-no while I'm recovering) - is this worthwhile, or too limited?

My main worry is that being in shape is VERY beneficial to my wellbeing and general state of mind, so losing it might end up causing other issues. Sad I know, but that's me.

[Sticks.]

Perhaps you could ask your doc or physio how soon you could get in the pool?

[BlackVanDyke]

Obviously upper body stuff as normal, can't see why you shouldn't go to the gym and do what you can.

Consider that you may be burning a LOT less calories than usual and adjust intake accordingly.

Make sure if exercise is your usual way to chill out that you'll have some alternative, get a few good books or something - you'll be very bored and unhappy if you don't have enough to do.