Fitness
It's important for all people, including those with a disability, to scuplt an exercise regime suited to their needs. It may seem daunting at first, but dive in and give it a go!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular exercise can be of huge benefit, including:
- Improving stamina and muscle strength - this may really help with some forms of disability.
- When we exercise, the brain releases endorphins that delivers a feel-good high. This can help ease anxiety and depression, and additionally, lift your mood.
- Exercising in a group is a great way to try something different, meet new people and become part of the community.
- You'll gain the ability to maintain a higher level of independence, sense of freedom and quality of life.
- Exercise can control joint swelling, and help alleviate pain in the process.
Everyone can benefit from an exercise regimen, but those with special needs and physical, intellectual and emotional disabilities, even more so. Research has shown that regular exercise benefits people with disabilities and those suffering from chronic conditions and illnesses. Exercise reduces stiffness, improves mobility, posture, balance and gait. Aerobic exercise increases oxygen delivery and neurotransmitters to keep our heart, lungs, and nervous system healthy. General exercise may also reduce depression.
RLN's goal is to empower people with physical challenges and other special needs, through physical activity and wellness services catered to each individuals specific needs and wants. I offer many forms of exercise and fitness from walks in the park to gym sessions, to riding bikes, swimming, cardiovascular and stretch training, and participating in sports to keep individuals active and engaged in exercise without knowing they are getting a good workout in.
Physical Activity
Adults of all shapes, sizes, and abilities can benefit from being physically active, including those with disabilities. For important health benefits, all adults should do both aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activities. Regular aerobic physical activity increases heart and lung functions; improves daily living activities and independence; decreases chances of developing chronic diseases; and improves mental health.
Adults with disabilities should try to get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) a week of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (i.e., brisk walking; wheeling oneself in a wheelchair) or at least 1 hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity (i.e., jogging, wheelchair basketball) or a mix of both moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activities each week. A rule of thumb is that 1 minute of vigorous-intensity activity is about the same as 2 minutes of moderate-intensity activity. They should avoid inactivity as some physical activity is better than none.
Muscle-strengthening activities should include moderate and high intensity, and involve all major muscle groups on two or more days a week (i.e., working with resistance-band, adapted yoga) as these activities provide additional health benefits. All children and adolescents should do 1 hour (60 minutes) or more of physical activity each day.
If a person with a disability is not able to meet the physical activity guidelines, they should engage in regular physical activity based on their abilities and should avoid inactivity. Adults with disabilities should talk to their healthcare provider about the amounts and types of physical activity that are appropriate for their abilities.
Ways we're active in RLN Home Health Care
Workouts at the Gym
More info to come.
More info to come.
More info to come.
More info to come.
More info to come.