Wheelchair Exercises
Wheelchair exercises have many advantages for wheelchair users who participate in them regularly. Many types of wheelchair exercises improve the wheelchair users upper body strength and endurance. The wheelchair user may also experience other benefits of wheelchair exercises.
The wheelchair exercises can reduce depression and improve the wheelchair user's self-image. Exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety. Regular exercise often helps improve insomnia.
There are many types of wheelchair exercises that can be done alone or with a group. Competitive sports, aerobics, and weightlifting are a few examples of types of wheelchair exercises.
For wheelchair users that have not participated in regular exercise, they should build strength and endurance slowly. Exercising at least five times a week for up to forty-five minutes is generally recommended.
Stretching is a very important component of exercise. Proper stretching of the muscles can help prevent soreness and injury. For the wheelchair user who is not used to exercising, the person may want to start with deep breathing exercises and stretching for their wheelchair exercises.
Lifting light weights is a common way to start to build upper body strength. As the wheelchair user gains upper body strength, the wheelchair user can increase the weight they use.
While lifting weights increases upper body strength, aerobic activity is beneficial for building endurance. For wheelchair users who want to exercise alone, there are aerobic videos and audiotapes designed for wheelchair users or people who must exercise while seated.
Competitive wheelchair sports are becoming increasingly popular. There are a large variety of wheelchair sports available in many locations. Wheelchair basketball, tennis, rugby, and even wheelchair hockey are just some examples of wheelchair sports.
Some gyms have aerobics and yoga and other exercise classes for wheelchair users. Water aerobics is another popular wheelchair exercise commonly available at gyms.
The wheelchair users should discuss wheelchair exercises with their doctor. The doctor, local hospital, and local gym may have information about organized sports or exercise classes for wheelchair users. If the wheelchair user has a strong interest in and organize, competitive wheelchair sport, the wheelchair user may want to start a wheelchair sports group.
