Having limited mobility shouldn’t keep you from remaining physically active. If you rely on a wheelchair to get around, it is essential to stay physically active so that your muscles do not weaken. Regardless of your current level, there are exercises you can do to keep your body strong. Limited mobility exercises include stretching, lifting weights, utilizing stretch bands, and more.

Benefits of Limited Mobility Exercises

According to the American Heart Association, regular exercise can help prevent bone loss as well as many other diseases associated with aging. When it comes to fitness routines, the important thing is that you are active. There are many benefits to limited mobility exercises including:

• Increased endurance
• Lower blood pressure
• Preventing bone loss

Start With a Stretch!

Before we get into the different ways to exercise, it is important to remember to start with a stretch. Stretching allows you to loosen up your muscles and increase flexibility. Stretching is also a source of relaxation, so be sure not to forget this step.

Moving in Moderation

You may think that spending most of your time in a chair means fitness should not be a priority, but that’s not the case. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, people with disabilities can gain significant health benefits from a moderate amount of physical activity. There are many options to help keep you more active. Here are a few exercise tips for wheelchair users to get you started.

Aerobic and Cardio

The primary goals of cardio are raising your heart rate and getting your blood pumping. This type of exercise not only improves your fitness, but it also improves your heart health and oxygen consumption, which can help decrease fatigue. There are many types of cardio exercise, including wheelchair basketball. Team sports are a great way to keep active.

Flexibility

Along with cardio, it’s also important to keep your muscles limber and flexible. Exercises like wheelchair yoga and Pilates not only improve flexibility and strength, they are also linked to improved concentration and overall well-being.

Strength Training

Many people begin their exercise journey by lifting light weights. These workouts help to strengthen your arms and core muscles, which are essential for effective wheelchair use.

Safety First

It is vital to incorporate all types of exercise to provide balance and to ensure you are addressing all of your fitness needs. Here are some things you can do to make sure you are exercising safely:

• Talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise routine.
• Start slowly, especially if you haven’t been active for a long time.
• Do what feels comfortable, if you get tired, it’s okay to slow down.

Being somewhat limited in what you can does not mean you cannot enjoy a healthy, active life. Regular exercise will help you feel better and motivated. If you’re looking for a rental wheelchair, power scooter, or walker, contact Yellow Scooters. We are the #1 mobile equipment rental company in Orlando with the most options and the best deals on power scooters and wheelchairs to rent or to own. Give us a call today at 1-855-274-3363.