Whether you’ve recently experienced a change in your mobility or have been living with mobility issues most of your life, you’ll know what a challenge it can be to stay active. Still, getting movement in safe and effective ways is essential not only to dealing with these challenges, but to promote overall longevity and well-being.
Why exercise is important
There are a ton of benefits to incorporating exercise into your routine, even with mobility limitations. Explore some of the following below:
- Prevent further mobility damage
- Improve your mood and mindset
- Help with recovery from major medical procedures
- Improve your overall quality of life
Taking the time out to get active despite mobility challenges truly is taking the time to invest in your health and happiness over time.
Health precautions to consider
As with any exercise program for people with all abilities, always consult a healthcare professional before taking on any new regimen.
While the following suggestions may be suitable for many, they should not be taken in place of medical advice from your health care provider. Always discuss with your care team and doctor what movements, exercises, and activities are suitable for your abilities and circumstances to avoid unnecessary risk and injury.
Exercises that are accessible despite mobility challenges
There are a wealth of options to choose from when considering what activities to incorporate into your exercise and movement routine. Explore some of the suggestions below for details on some of the best forms of exercise to start with today.
Walking
There are plenty of upsides to walking, even just ten minutes a day, that can support your mobility and health in the long term. Walking at a brisk pace helps promote better blood circulation, improve your overall mood, and maintain joint and muscle health.
Depending on your ability and your health condition, discuss with your doctor if the following activities could be beneficial for you:
- A brisk walk in the park, to the shops, or around your neighbourhood
- A few laps around your property with a caregiver
- Walking up and down stairs safely while out instead of taking an elevator or escalator
- Walking around a pool for resistance and strength
Water Aerobics
Water aerobics is another great form of exercise as it uses the water’s natural resistance for gentle strength training and getting your heart rate up.
Whether it’s water jogging, a pool aerobics fitness class, or simply lifting swimming weights for a few sets while on a pool lift, this activity is great and accessible to people of all abilities.
Stretching
Often overlooked, stretching is a fantastic form of gentle movement that helps to lengthen muscles, improve recovery from injury, support mobility range of motion, and combat muscle stiffness that can result from chronic conditions or medical procedures.
Stretching can be done in many different ways, including yoga, dynamic stretching, and even pilates. Try speaking with your occupational therapist to find the right movements for you to perform at home safely.
Strength Training
Strength training is an integral part of any active routine. In fact, the NHS recommends you strength train at least twice a week for adults of any ability to really reap the benefits.
It not only supports muscle growth but also helps maintain strength to complete everyday tasks like lifting groceries, getting out of bed, or completing household chores. It also improves posture, sleep, and balance and can reduce the risk of fractures from a fall or accident.
Strength training can include weights or your own body weight with dynamic movements that challenge the muscles for a set period of time. This can include dumbbell workouts like bicep curls and overhead press, or using a stable object like a table or chair for assisted squats, leg extensions, and calf raises.
The possibilities are endless.
Wheelchair Sports
If you are a wheelchair dependent individual, there are still plenty of activities to help you stay active with mobility challenges.
Many of the suggestions above can even be tailored to fit your circumstances and should be included in your routine, like strength training, water aerobics, and stretching. But there are even more options to keep you moving and your heart rate up.
Consider trying popular sports like basketball, tennis, or racing. You can research facilities and programs in your local area that provide opportunities for wheelchair users to enjoy recreation and association with one another while staying active.
As with all physical activity, always consult with your doctor for medical advice prior to taking on any new sport.
Thistle Help Offers Mobility Support
At Thistle Help, we know how important it is to be able to navigate life’s activities with little disruption, no matter what your capabilities are. We are here to help support you with all of your mobility equipment needs to ensure you can maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, no matter your circumstances.
Get in touch with our friendly team today by phone or visit one of our showrooms to see how we can help you find the right equipment for you.
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