No matter what the cause or how long you’re confined to it, it can be challenging to find the motivation to stay fit when you’re in a wheelchair. Matter of fact, it’s pretty understandable why you might have moments when you find yourself asking, “What’s the point?” But just because you may not be able to move all of your body parts, that doesn’t mean that your internal organs are not relying on you to do whatever is necessary to keep them healthy and thriving. Plus, remember that whatever part of your body is keeping you wheelchair-bound, that is only a part of you, but it’s not all of who are you. Exercise is important for everyone regardless of age, weight, sex, or yes, type of disability.
So, what are some ways that you can stay fit when you are wheelchair-bound? Here are five of them below:
Get into some sports. It may not be discussed much, but the reality is that there are a ton of sports that cater, specifically, to individuals who are confined to a wheelchair. They include football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, golf, and even skiing. These are all wonderful ways to keep your cardio going, which is ultimately a great exercise for your heart and lungs. If you’re interested in getting involved with some of these sports, call your local gyms to see what information they have available on athletic activities that specifically cater to those in a wheelchair.
Do upper-body workouts by adding waist trainer UK. If you’re in a wheelchair due to a temporary leg injury, or even if you’re paraplegic, you can still work out the top half of your body by implementing some upper-body workout techniques. This can include using a medicine ball to do a chest squeeze (hold the ball in both hands and slowly extend it from your chest with elbows completely straight for a count of 10) or wrapping an exercise band around the back of your chair, pulling both sides of the band under your armpits and extending them for a count of 10 and then repeating.
Apply some free weights. Some people with the strongest arms and chests are people in wheelchairs. This is because of all of the exercises that is naturally exerted simply by relying on the upper half of the body for movement. An effective way to keep your arms toned and your chest fit are to use 5-8.lbs free weights on a daily basis. Just put in your favorite music to do some arm curls or arm extensions for about 20 minutes per day.
Try a few Kegels. A lot of times, when people hear the word “kegel”, they think of it in relation to sex. Honestly, there are lots of people in wheelchairs that have a fulfilling sex life and so, yes, kegel exercises can certainly be applied in this case. However, they’re also a great way to get control of your pelvic region overall. So if, for instance, you were in an accident that prevented you from being able to go to the bathroom on your own for a long period of time, doing a series of Kegels can help you to get your pelvic strength and control back. All you need is to do is get into a seated position and hold your butt cheeks together as tightly as you can for a count of five. Then release and repeat. Over time, it will tone the muscles in your pelvic area.
Touch your toes (with a twist). If your injury is one that brought about temporary consequences, but your doctor is certain that you will gain full recovery, here’s an idea for the lower part of your body. Have a loved one or friend sit in a chair just a couple of feet apart of you; far enough where the tip of your feet can touch the edge of theirs. With your legs extended (and without locking your knees), attempt to touch the toes of your left foot and then your right. Initially, you may be able to only touch your kneecaps or calves, but that’s fine. Hold for a count of 10 and then alternate. This will help to stretch out your spine and give you some much-needed flexibility to get back into the “walking swing of things”.
