Exercise is for everyone, or should I say everyBODY. It is for anyone who wants to take an active role in improving his or her health and well being. In the Surgeon General’s 1996 Report on Physical Activity and Health, it states people of all ages can “substantially improve their health and quality of life by including moderate amounts of physical activity in their daily lives.”
But what is a moderate amount of exercise, you ask? It can be anything from walking or wheeling for 30 minutes, gardening for 45 minutes, 20 minutes of basketball or 30 minutes of household chores. The bottom line is that physical activity does not have to be strenuous for you to gain health benefits. Just start moving.
People with Disabilities More Sedentary
People with physical disabilities tend to lead a more sedentary lifestyle than people without a disability, yet both have similar needs to promoting health and preventing unnecessary diseases. Increased muscle strength and endurance affects your body in many positive ways: opening heavy doors, wheeling up a steep hill, lifting groceries. Social support has been consistently related to staying physically active, so get your friends and family involved in your quest for better health.
Fit Your Workout to Your Abilities
There are many differences between each of the disabilities, but also within each disability group. Workout programs should be appropriate to your capabilities and limitations, and they can always be adjusted to your changing needs.
But what type of activity is best for you?
• Anything that involves movement (shake your groove thing, go gardening)
• It should be enjoyable (something that you find fun and entertaining will help you make it a healthy habit)
• Something that is challenging mentally and physically
• It should be regular and consistent
• If you don’t have time for 30-60 minutes at a time, try for short burst of exercise (5, 10, 15 minutes at a time).
According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, “Regular physical activity can help people with chronic, disabling conditions improve stamina and muscle strength and can improve psychological well being and quality of life by increasing the ability to perform activities of daily living.”
Okay, so now what? First, consult with your physician, who will be able to give you the green light to go forward with an exercise program. Secondly, he might be able to give you a recommendation for a professional exercise specialist and maybe even some basic exercises to start with.
Improve your quality of life with the lifelong practice of enjoying physical activity. The time for action is now!
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