Saturday, August 26, 2017

There Are Important Physical And Mental Benefits To Wheelchair Exercises

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 is common for chair bound individuals to suffer from depression. This can make sticking to an exercise regime even harder. Doctors advise their patients to set achievable goals for themselves and develop plans to succeed. Enlisting the help of friends and family who are willing to hold the disabled person accountable can be effective. Working out at the same time each week helps develop the habit of exercising.

It may help to remind yourself of the benefits you receive when you make the effort to do some sort of exercising every day. Exercise has some obvious physical benefits that include improving blood circulation, posture, and spinal stability. It tones muscles, increases flexibility, and keeps you from gaining weight. In addition to the physical benefits, exercise reduces stress and generates endorphins, which are powerful anti-depressants.

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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