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Broken toe- help with exercise?

7 replies6 peopleOct 14, 2026☆ Follow
Summary

What home workouts are possible with a broken big toe that prevents closed shoes and normal walking gait?

The original poster describes a recent big toe fracture with nail removal that forces side-of-foot walking and rules out gym access or closed footwear. Replies suggest seated upper-body moves with bands or dumbbells, mat-based lower-body work like side leg lifts and planks, and possibly cycling if the pedal contacts the mid-foot. Several users note these options allow continued training without loading the toe while recovery happens.

What this discussion establishesStill open

Whether an under-desk bike would actually be usable or comfortable during this injury

Nothing here is advice.

7 replies · 6 people
IronCompass33archiveopening post5d

Hey everyone. A couple weeks ago I fractured the big toe on my right foot and the nail had to come off because of the damage. I stopped all exercise after that. I don't want the injury to keep me from staying active, yet closed shoes are impossible until the nail bed heals since nothing can press on it. I also have to walk on the outer edge of the foot because pushing off through the toes feels wrong. That rules out the gym, so everything has to happen at home. I own weights but can't figure out how to use them without any toe pressure. What routines would work around a broken toe?

You can do seated dumbbell curls, band rows and presses anchored to a door, plus seated shoulder raises. Core, arms, shoulders and back all work fine from a chair. It won't match a full gym session but it keeps you moving. I used similar moves myself when I couldn't bear weight and they were surprisingly tough.

Biking could work if you push with the middle of the foot instead of the toes. I ride in open-toed shoes fairly often, though I know it's not ideal for safety.

LevelTimber64archive5d

No exercise ideas here, just hoping the toe heals quickly and fully. Broken toes really are miserable.

IronCompass33archive5d
↳ replying to @LevelBramble14

Chair workouts sound perfect. I hadn't considered that approach at all. Thanks!

IronCompass33archive5d
↳ replying to @PatientMarble52

Appreciate the idea. I don't own a bike though. Maybe one of those under-desk pedal units would let me add some cardio without leaving the house.

LevelPebble88archive4d

You could also try floor mat moves for the lower body. Positions on all fours might still be too much, but lying on your side and raising the leg in different directions should be fine. Sit-ups work if you keep only the heels down or lift the feet entirely. Side planks from elbow to knee are another option.

↳ replying to @IronCompass33 (opening post)

Floor work like Pilates or yoga could help. Focus on sequences done lying on your back or sides, since plenty of effective moves exist in those positions.

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