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The Benefits And Importance Of Wheelchair Exercises For All Ages

By Karen Sullivan


Being wheelchair bound is difficult whether it is temporary or permanent. For those who are forced to sit all day, muscles can weaken and begin to atrophy quickly. Unless aggressive measures are taken, individuals may be able to do less and less for themselves. It is possible to create an exercise regime to fit whatever condition has put the person in this situation. Wheelchair exercises can strengthen and tone crucial muscles.

It can be difficult to get motivated to exercise when you are confined to a chair all day. It is important to set goals for yourself and develop concrete plans to achieve them. Some people find family and friends crucial for holding them accountable and giving them regular encouragement. You may find it helpful to set aside a specific time each day to dedicate to exercising.

Although it takes time to see the results and appreciate the benefits of an exercise routine, you will eventually be rewarded for your efforts. You will have more spinal stability, and your blood circulation will improve. You will sit up straighter. Toned muscles will give you a healthy appearance. You will have more flexibility and are less likely to gain unnecessary pounds. Your mental state should improve as well because exercise generates the endorphins you need to fight depression.

Before you begin any strength training, you need to warm up for five minutes or so. Push ups are great for strengthening your upper body. You should make certain the brakes are firmly in place before you try to lift yourself up from the seat using the armrests. Overhead stretches using free weights or dumbbells are effective ways to tone and strengthen arms and back muscles.

Exercising one's legs can be challenging for wheelchair bound individuals. It can be accomplished however, with the use of resistance bands. You can tie them to doorknobs or other stationery furniture in order to do extensions. These bands have the advantage of being extremely flexible. They may be purchased in various strengths.

One way to get great exercise, and interact with other individuals in similar circumstances, is to find a team sport for people in motorized chairs. You can choose from basketball, soccer, football, skiing, golf, table tennis and more. The vigorous exercising these sports require is excellent for your lungs and heart. You will burn calories and increase your energy levels as well.

While exercising is very important for individuals with limited mobility, taking care to prevent common injuries is also important. Injuries to the upper body are the most common ailments wheelchair bound people complain of. They use their upper bodies to maneuver their chairs, get in and out of them, and perform other daily activities. Shoulder strains and carpal tunnel disorders make up the majority of upper body injuries sustained by those in chairs.

For those with restricted movement, maintaining as much independence as possible is crucial. Although it may be hard to avoid falling into depression, it is important to remain strong both physically and mentally. It helps to have a vigorous and aggressive exercise routine with friends and family who support your efforts in every way.




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