The Ultimate Guidelines to Be Active in a Wheelchair

Keeping physically active is essential for your body; it maintains your health and highly reduces the risk of developing diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes type 2, arthritis and even stroke. And that is not all: it also helps you to maintain your weight and not to get depression. As a wheelchair user, you have several activities and sports to choose from that will ensure you remain fit and healthy. I will give you a detailed guideline on how to do this.

First Things First

The foremost step you should take is consulting your doctor the moment you decide to embark on physical exercise. Your doctor will guide you on the type of exercises and the intensity of the activities that you can engage in. All you need to do here is set small attainable goals and choose activities you like doing. It may look like you are not doing much but it is one step at a time and boom! You are there.

What Kind Exercise is best?

• Weight lifting or strength training is an amazing way to keep fit. And here is the really cool part, it can be done almost anywhere and also the weights can be locally modified from can foods and other cans. Having no access to the gym, therefore, should not hold you back.
• Wheelchair Team sports are a great way to keep physically active. It enhances competition in your workout program and is a big motivator for you as you work out with other wheelchair users. Basketball, golf, tennis, volleyball, swimming among others is some of the sports that are usually available at community centers in most regions. Check with your nearest community and get information regarding the sports available.
• Besides, aerobic exercises and yoga will work to improve the general physical health of your body by increasing flexibility and toning muscles. Investing in simple bands increases your strength and improves the state cardiovascular health.

Ensuring Safety

Physical activity enhances your complete well being, both your mind and body are rejuvenated with every exercise you do. But one thing is for sure: the risk of injury is inevitable.  The most common injuries experienced by wheelchair users include soft tissues of the elbows, elbows, shoulders and wrists.  But if you take the time to wear protective gear, go through rigorous strength training; warm up by stretching before any exercise session you will be good to go.  You will be less likely to incur any injuries.

Conclusion

Physical activity is not reserved for those on their two feet only. A wheelchair user armed with enough awareness, a load full of information and oozing with the right attitude can no doubt lead a healthy and active lifestyle.