5 ways to exercise with disabilities

It is always important to exercise to maintain a healthy body - and even more so when you're disabled. However, your specific disabilities may preclude exercise as you have traditionally thought of it. Still, each little bit counts - here are 5 ways to exercise with disabilities. Please keep in mind that your particular disability may not work with some of these exercises, and that you should always consult your doctor before starting an exercise program. Please, start slowly!

1. Swim
Swimming is a wonderful, non-weight-bearing exercise that just about anyone can do. If you're lucky enough to live near a rehab pool, so much for the better. They are heated a bit more than regular pools, and you'll find that you can move a bit more easily in them. One of my rehab pools, at Sister Kenny in Minneapolis, was always full of people - young and old, those barely able to move and those able to swim laps. It was glorious! If you need help, use a swim noodle, or go with a friend or a therapist. Even moving your legs, or your arms, while in the water is beneficial to your health!

2. Yoga
After my accident, when I was unable to walk, I was still able to do yoga, thanks to a book I found called Gentle Yoga. You can do these adapted yoga exercises while seated, or while lying on the floor. They are all very gentle, adn you do them at your own pace and ability. I LOVE this book. It helped me to move my body again!

3. Stretching
If you have a debilitating condition, even 30 seconds of stretching might be too much. So try with 5 seconds, and work up to 6 seconds. Remember, every little bit counts. You can stretch while lying in bed, while in a wheelchair, or seated at a table. Stretch your body as you are able, and hold that stretch for a bit. Try again, if you can. You'll work up to more - and your body will tell you if you are doing too much! Stretching will help you become more limber, counteracting the effects of your disability on your body.

4. Competitions
If you're disabled but still able to exercise, and want to compete, there are many options for you - the Special Olympics, Wheelchair sporting events, blind or deaf associations, and the like. The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability is a good starting point for finding options and meeting people.

5. Strength training
You can lift just about anything and call it strength training - lift cans of beans, or work up to weights. Strength training can help you build muscle tissue that will make your body stronger and better able to get through the day.

Whatever your disability, and whatever your current physical condition, starting slowly and working within your limits - don't make yourself ill! - will help your body become stronger. Good luck!