Exercise has physical and mental benefits. In addition to keeping you healthy and fit, exercise gives you a sense of accomplishment and well-being. Wheelchair users may think suitable heart-stimulating exercises are scarce, but several aerobic activities are effective for the physically disabled. Disabled World quotes one wheelchair user as saying, "If you can move something, you can exercise." Consult your physician before beginning an exercise program and, if you haven't been active in a while, set attainable goals to get started.
Swimming
Swimming allows people with many degrees of disability to participate in aerobic activity. The buoyancy of water removes many of the physical restrictions that are experienced on land when a person is confined to a wheelchair. Swimming laps or simply treading water keeps the heart rate elevated, which is the goal of aerobic activity.
Wheeling
In much the same way that an ambulatory person walks or jogs for aerobic exercise, a person confined to a wheelchair can "drive" or "wheel" his chair. Get your heart rate going by manually pushing yourself around the neighborhood or around a track at the gym or school. As the process gets easier, increase the speed at which you push or add inclines to your routine.
Sports
Join a recreational wheelchair sports league. Wheelchair basketball and tennis are just two of several sports that require aerobic activity to play. You should do other exercises to build your endurance before beginning a sport, but a recreational league provides an enjoyable means of exercising. Competitive wheelchair leagues exist throughout the country for people looking to do more than stay in shape.
Other Exercises
Hand cycle machines are effective for aerobic exercise. Hand-powered cycles are also available for wheelchair users to exercise outdoors. Some wheelchair users may be able to use rowing machines. A speed bag used by boxers can be set at an appropriate level for someone in a wheelchair. Resistance and strength training are also recommended for wheelchair users. Using bands and weights increases flexibility, tones muscles and helps control weight. By working the upper torso, you can eliminate neck and back discomfort caused by hours of sitting.
Member Comments