The best exercises for disabled people would depend upon what type of disability the person has. For instance, if the person uses a wheelchair, simple arm exercises might help strengthen the muscles of the forearm. Breathing techniques can be beneficial for disabled people. Using equipment such as hand weights or a simple ball can be other forms of exercises for disabled people.
Hand cycling may increase the heart rate while strengthening arm and hand muscles. This specialized equipment is known as an upper body ergometer or hand cycle. This can improve strength in the arms, shoulders, and upper back. It is also a good method of toning.
If the physically disabled person has some mobility, swimming is an excellent form of exercise. This will provide muscle strengthening as well as cardio fitness. In addition to swimming, water aerobics may be beneficial to some disabled individuals. A swimming instructor can offer instruction and supervision.
Wheelchair exercises for flexibility and toning can provide activity and fun. Bicep curls are a good starting point. The person will hold a soup can in each hand, bend arms slightly, while tucking elbows in close to the side. He will then lift the cans or hand weights slowly, while holding for a count of five seconds. A set of 10 repetitions should be sufficient.
Other chair exercises for disabled people include the use of resistance bands. A resistance band is made to stretch and, as the name suggests, provide resistance. This will help to strengthen arm muscles. The person simply secures one end of the resistance band to an object such as a door knob. Once the band is firmly secured, the person pulls the band toward himself, then slowly releases.
There are several variations for this type of resistance training. If the individual is able to do so, extension exercises for the feet and legs are another excellent choice. It is helpful to purchase a couple of sets of resistance bands to work on the arms and legs simultaneously.
Look for disability exercise support groups or start one yourself. They may be available through local hospitals, clinics, gyms or community centers. Search online and on community boards, or put out a flier and see if there is a need in the community.
If you do find you have a number of other disabled people who want to start an exercise group, contact local pools, gyms or community centers to see if they would be interested in holding classes. This route will not only help your fitness, but also help other people in need.
Chair-bound exercises are ideal for people with lower body injuries or disabilities, those with weight problems or diabetes, and frail seniors looking to reduce their risk of falling. Cardiovascular and flexibility chair exercises can help improve posture and reduce back pain, while any chair exercise can help alleviate body sores caused by sitting in the same position for long periods. They’re also a great way to squeeze in a workout while you’re watching TV.
If possible, choose a chair that allows you to keep your knees at 90 degrees when seated. If you’re in a wheelchair, securely apply the brakes or otherwise immobilize the chair.
Try to sit up tall while exercising and use your abs to maintain good posture.
If you suffer from high blood pressure, check your blood pressure before exercising and avoid chair exercises that involve weights.
Test your blood sugar before and after exercise if you take diabetes medication that can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
If you want to add competition to your workouts, several organizations offer adaptive exercise programs and competitions for sports such as basketball, track and field, volleyball, and weightlifting. See Resources section below.
Chair aerobics, a series of seated repetitive movements, will raise your heart rate and help you burn calories, as will many strength training exercises when performed at a fast pace with a high number of repetitions. In fact any rapid, repetitive movements offer aerobic benefits and can also help to loosen up stiff joints.
Chair Yoga
Most yoga poses can be modified or adapted depending on your physical mobility, weight, age, medical condition, and any injury or disability. Chair yoga is ideal if you have a disability, injury, or a medical condition such arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, or multiple sclerosis.
There is a wide selection of exercise for disabled, more than I knew, seems to be a great way to meet new people also, make friends in a similar situation to yourself, staying fit and healthy is an added bonus, give something a go
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