Being confined to a wheelchair does not exclude someone from exercise. In fact many times it is more important than ever to exercise. This is for many reasons as a person will want to maintain their flexibility as well as their strength. And like other types of exercises it is therapeutic in the person’s stress level. There are many different wheelchair exercises someone can do to accomplish these goals. Here are a few things you should know.
Jumping into a routine may seem like the right thing to do but you will need to get ready to make it the best workout for you. First get something in your stomach. Having a light meal or snack about an hour before you exercise is the best for your system. This also gives you energy to work out. You will also get better digestion with exercising.
One of the best tools for exercising are resistance bands. These bands are simple to use and help you get all the muscle groups that you need to. They are pulled in for exercising one muscle group and pulled out to exercise another group. The way you exercise and the position of your arms will determine what muscle groups are being worked on.
The routine you build should start with lighter resistance training before you move on to heavier training. Then it should be ended with stretching once again. These exercises can be done every day or every other day for best results. If you want to do them every day there should be alternating muscle groups you work on.
Repetition sets are also good to do as well. Do, for example, three sets of eight training exercises. This means you do the resistance exercise for one set of eight repetitions. Then you count to ten and do them again in the exact same way and stop. Count to ten and then do the same amount as the first time one more time. This will be three sets. Then move on to the next exercise.
The way you breathe is a part of your wheelchair exercises as well. Do it properly for the best effect. Practice exhaling as you lift and inhaling as you lower your bands. The same is true with breathing when you use weights as well. There are many weights you can use for your workout. Again, start light and work your way up.
A wheelchair should not stop you from getting the exercise you need for your overall health. Keep up this important ritual to feel your best and follow the steps above to help you get there. Find the equipment you need for a reasonable price locally or online and get started in your new exercise routine for optimum health.
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