Exercising For The Disabled


Exercise is great for all bodies, whether able bodied or not. It works to strengthen our hearts, bones and muscles, not to mention it helps us to shed some unwanted pounds and all-important inches from our bodies. It helps boost our mood, keeps us flexible, helps with our mobility and keeps our circulatory systems in good working order. In short, exercise is something that every body can benefit from.

We have all learned from an early age that keeping that body moving, eating a good nutritious diet, keeping away from smoking and drinking alcohol in moderate amounts keeps us healthy, but what if you have a disability?

Some people may think that just because you have a disability means that you are unhealthy. If you are disabled yourself or know someone who is, you know this is just not true. Sure, if you are confined to a wheelchair you won't be able to use a treadmill or a stair climber, but there are things that you can do that keep you in tip top shape.

Keeping fit with a disability will be different for everyone. The key is to find what fits your needs best and go with it, no matter what. Tailoring a work out for you may be tricky at first, but with a little trial and error, and some help from a trainer or other gym personnel you will soon be on your way to a fit and healthy you.

Everyone, whether able bodied or disabled can get easily distracted from their fitness goals. The best thing to do is to give yourself little easy to attain goals. You can keep track of these goals quite easily using a chalkboard, whiteboard or even your phone, computer or an assistive device. When you reach each goal you should reward yourself so that you are more apt to keep up the great work and attain that next goal. Friends and family are usually great people to have in your corner when you are starting a new fitness regime. They may be able to partner up with you or go along to the gym or fitness center with you for moral support. Get them involved because it's always great to share success with someone you love!

Disabled, able bodied or somewhere in between, all bodies should seek medical advice before starting any new workouts. Just make sure what you are trying to do is safe and not going to hurt you or be unsafe for your condition. Start slow and build as your confidence grows, no one is a pro right off the bat. After you have a go-ahead, be sure the gym or center you choose is handicapped accessible and you are good to go! Have fun and good luck!


Soulful Encounters is a safe and welcoming site for the disabled and differently abled community. They offer support, information, friendship and maybe even love. For more information you can check out their website at http://www.soulfulencounters.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Amanda_J_Hales/1311545

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