Anybody have any advice for staying motivated through a long term recovery?

[mythology]

I've been training parkour, gymnastics and capoeira as well as going to the gym at work for cardio and some weight training. But in December I finally had to give in to reality and have a major knee surgery where they implanted new cartilage in my knee. I'm through the worst of the post surgery pain and am working on range of motion exercises and leg raises etc.

The recovery is estimated to be another 12 to 14 more months. During which, I won't be able to jump, run, land or twist. In other words, every day is upper body and core strength day for the foreseeable future.

I knew what I was getting into with the surgery, but I'm not sure how to stay motivated to do what I can for that long a period where I won't be able to do the things I find fun. Not doing anything isn't an option, both because I'd go crazy and I'd never be able to pick it all back up again if I stop for more than a year.

But the upper body stuff doesn't really interest me as it's generally more static rather than movement based. Any ideas on staying motivated?

[triron]

1. How about swimming? It's a great exercise (though not much for bone strength).

Can you do stationary bike with low resistance? Also are you near where you
might try xc skiing during winter? These are all things I've done.
Good luck; I know what you are going through as I am a former triathlete/xc skier/ mountain runner.
I still do the sports but don't compete anymore. I had severe osteoarthritis in my right hip
in my late 50s until I had hip resurfacing 10 years ago. It was an ordeal for me before and immediately after
my surgery.

[triron]

2. You posted this back in 2015! Guess my suggestions are pretty moot by now.

[fleabiscuit]

5. Welcome to the DU. Looks like the thread you posted in is languishing a bit, date wise.

[carla19]

6. Why not do simple exercises at home

Hey, you can do simple exercises at home like leg raise, crunches, etc, they will not involve your knee.