5 Tips On Staying Active With a Disability

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Living with a disability can present unique challenges. One of those challenges is staying active with a disability. However, it doesn't mean that staying active is going to be impossible. Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for both your mental as well as your physical well-being. 

There are various ways in which you can strive to stay engaged in physical activities so that your mind and body can benefit.

The key to staying active when you have a disability it's to find exercises and activities that are going to be aligned with your abilities as well as your interest. Here's a look at how you can stay active even when you have a disability.

5 Tips On Staying Active With A Disability

Adapted Exercise Programs

One of the best ways to stay active is to participate in adapted or modified exercise programs whenever possible. There are many gyms and community centers out there that are going to offer you classes that are specifically designed for those with disabilities. 

They might have seated exercise, low impact water aerobics or chair exercises. You can even do at home exercises that are adjusted to suit your needs. For example dumbbells, resistance bands or body weight exercises can be done while you're sitting or using a walker.

You should make sure you're working with a physical therapist or a fitness coach who has some experience in adaptive fitness. This way you can get correct guidance into finding exercises. When you get it right you will see an improvement in your strength without risking injury.

Swimming or Water Therapy

Water exercises are a great way for you to stay active without actually putting more stress on your joints or muscles. The buoyancy of water is going to support your body and it's going to reduce the risk that you'll get an injury. 

This will allow you to move more freely. Swimming is one of those low impact activities that's going to help you to build endurance. It's also going to improve your cardiovascular health as well. 

You're going to find that in general your mobility starts to increase. If you don't have access to a pool, you should think about doing water therapy programs.

Explore Outdoor Activities

Being outside in nature can be invigorating and therapeutic. Depending on the disability you have there are many outdoor activities that may be just right for you. For instance, hiking trails may be accessible with the use of a wheelchair or a mobility scooter. 

You can try mobility scooter rental for a day so that you can explore trails, beaches and parks that would otherwise have been difficult for you to access.

Similarly there are adaptive cycling programs that provide modified bicycles for those who have disabilities. These types of bikes can be ridden with the use of hand pedals or other modifications that may be added. 

This way just about anyone can enjoy cycling no matter what type of disability they have. If you love to be outside then this is invaluable as it's going to give you valuable exercise and you can enjoy exploring the landscape as well.

Strength Training

Strength training is crucial for people with disabilities. It is vital for helping you to build and maintain muscle mass, reduce risk of falls and also to improve your balance at the same time. If you're an individual who has limited mobility, strength training is a great way for you to build your muscles. 

The training exercises are going to be performed using seated positions. Resistance bands as well as dumbbells and even your body weight are going to help to improve your strength without requiring that you walk or stand. This will take a lot of pressure off your body.

Resistance band exercises and arm presses can be performed with minimal effort. When you do regular strength training it also helps with improving your bone density. This is very important for those individuals who have conditions such as osteoporosis or if you are wheelchair bound.

Engage in Social Activities

Physical activity isn't just about exercise. It's all about making sure you find something that is enjoyable so that you will move your body regularly. When you participate in social activities it can give you a sense of community. 

It can also become your motivation to stay active. What you can do is join a group or club that shares your interest. It could be a dance class, a local walking group or an adaptive sports league. These types of social connections are not only going to give you an opportunity to stay active but you will also be able to have a positive mental outlook.

In conclusion, staying active while living with a disability is not only possible but also essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being. By exploring adaptive exercise programs, water therapy, outdoor activities, strength training, and engaging in social activities, you can find ways to incorporate movement and connection into your daily life. The key is to focus on activities that align with your abilities and interests, ensuring they bring you joy while supporting your health. Remember, staying active is not just about exercise—it's about fostering a positive mindset, building community, and celebrating what your body can achieve.