For people with disabilities, fitness is about more than just health benefits. Exercise can help with weight management, stress relief, improved sleep and more. However, finding a disabled-friendly fitness routine can be a challenge.
Guest blogger, Suzanne Tanner, explores some of the different disabled-friendly fitness options available, as well as some tips on how to get the most out of your preferred physical activity.
Suzanne is following in her mother’s footsteps to become a physical therapist. Growing up, she watched her mum work with patients of all backgrounds: individuals who were born with physical limitations and wanted to become stronger; people who suffered a trauma and were working to rebuild strength they’d lost or figuring out a new way of life after losing some of their physical abilities permanently; and senior citizens whose abilities had changed with age.
She started her site, Able Safety, as an extra credit term project, but she decided to keep it going as a passion project. On the site, she shares tips, resources and exercises for people with disabilities and seeks to empower and inspire people to live life on their terms no matter their abilities.
6 disabled-friendly fitness options
1. Accessible sports, exercises and workouts
Sense notes that there are a variety of sports, exercises and workouts that are suitable for people with disabilities. Some options include wheelchair basketball, tennis, swimming and yoga. Talk to your doctor or a physical therapist to find an activity that is right for you. Remember to start slowly and increase the intensity of your workouts gradually to avoid injury.
2. Assistive technology and accessories
There is a wide range of technology and accessories available to help people with disabilities get the most out of their preferred physical activity. For example, there are adaptive bicycles, handcycles and tricycles that can help people with mobility impairments stay active.
There are also swimming aids such as flotation devices and kickboards that can help people with disabilities enjoy the water. Whatever your fitness goals may be, there is probably a piece of technology or accessory that can help you achieve them.
3. Setting a healthy morning schedule
There are many things we can do to start our day off on the right foot. One of the most important things is to have a healthy morning routine. This may include things like eating a nutritious breakfast, getting some exercise and spending some time in nature.
Another great way to start your day is to read an inspirational book. This can help to set the tone for the day and give you some positive motivation.
Additionally, it’s important to limit your time on social media. Instead of scrolling through news feeds filled with negativity, take some time to seek out the good news. By making these small changes, you can start your day off in a much better way.
4. Being driven to keep fit
BIG Health & Fitness points out that it can be difficult to find the motivation to stay fit when you have a disability. However, many benefits of exercise are worth the effort. In addition to the physical benefits of staying fit, exercise can also improve your mental health by reducing stress and increasing endorphins (feel-good hormones).
If you need some extra motivation, consider signing up for a fitness class or joining a sports team. There is strength in numbers, so you’ll be more likely to stick with your fitness routine if you have others to support you along the way.
5. Building a home gym or area for adaptive exercise
If going to the gym is not an option for you, consider building a home gym or creating an area in your home dedicated to exercise. This doesn’t have to be an expensive undertaking – a few dumbbells and resistance bands are all you need to get started.
If you’re short on space, there are plenty of bodyweight exercises that can be done in a small area such as push-ups, sit-ups and squats. The important thing is to make sure that your home gym is safe and functional so that you can exercise without fear of injury.
6. Maintaining safety while keeping fit
No matter what type of physical activity you choose, it’s important to maintain safety while keeping fit. This means warming up before exercising and cooling down afterwards. It also means listening to your body and taking breaks when you need them. If you’re feeling pain during your workout, stop immediately and consult a doctor or physical therapist before continuing. Remember – safety first!
This post has hopefully shown you that there are plenty of disabled-friendly fitness options to choose from and with a healthy morning routine, you can be on your way to getting fit. Remember to take things at your own pace, mix up your activities and have fun while being active! What type of disabled-friendly fitness option are you most excited to try?
If you would like me to be a guest blogger and/or you would like to feature as a guest blogger on my blog, please contact me.
Also, check out other Guest Blogs on Rock For Disability.
