One common misconception many of us have is that people with limited mobility are exempted from exercise or are unable to do so. However, this is not true. You don’t need to have full mobility to reap the good benefits of regular exercise such as better strength, improved muscle coordination, weight loss or maintenance, and even a better mood. What you need is creativity and motivation to do what you need for your body.
Types of Exercise
- Cardiovascular exercises
These are exercises that raise your heart rate and increase your endurance. A stronger heart means more oxygen will be delivered to the different cells in your muscles. This also enables you to recover more quickly from the stress of exercise.
Exercises include walking, jogging, water aerobics, or chair aerobics such as air punching (try it with weights!) or arm bicycling and rowing.
- Strength training exercises
These build up muscle mass for a stronger body. It also improves balance and prevents falls.
Exercises include the use of weights or other resistance. If you have limited mobility in your lower body, build up your upper body strength instead. Similarly, if you have limited mobility in your upper body, exercise your legs and core.
- Flexibility exercises
These increase your flexibility and allow for a wider range of motion. This also prevents injury and reduces pain and stiffness.
Exercises include yoga and stretching. Even with limited mobility, stretching your mobile limbs will still benefit your body greatly.
Consult Your Doctor
Before you start exercising, get a medical clearance. Consult your doctor about the exercises you have in mind. Also, ask how much exercise you should do every week and what exercises to avoid. Perhaps your doctor can even suggest activities for you to do to make you more comfortable with exercising.
Take Precautionary Measures
When exercising indoors, choose a well-ventilated room with a good amount of space for you to be able to move freely. Make the venue as accident-free as possible. Also, make sure to wear appropriate clothing, such as supportive footwear and other sportswear that won’t restrict your movement.
It’s also a good idea to make sure you have assistance. Have a family member help you with your exercise or hire Skilled Nursing Services to ensure that your workouts are successful and accident-free.
Start Exercising
Plan the exercises you’re going to do for the day or the week and make sure to have some variety with the different types of exercise. Start slowly; don’t force your body to do an activity that you find is rather painful. If that activity doesn’t work, scratch it out of your exercise plan and look for another activity to replace it.
Lastly, the mindset is important. Don’t be disheartened by your limitations. Instead, focus on what you CAN do. We, at Mass Care Services, Inc., are willing to help you get started.
If you would like to know more about our Home Care Services in Brockton, MA, visit our website at www.masscareservices.com. Got a burning question? Call us at 508-232-6226 or at 508-894-0060.
Disclaimer
Blogs, content and other media uploaded online are for informational purposes only. Contents on this website should not be considered medical advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to visit their physician for health-related issues.
