Disclaimer: Before beginning any exercise routine, it’s important to first consult with your doctor.
A crucial component to any healthy lifestyle is the incorporation of exercise into your daily/weekly routine. However, many people believe that exercise is fairly restricted to those who have full range of motion. But this is not always the case!
Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways that those with limited mobility can blend exercise into their daily routine. In fact, if you’re struggling with limited mobility such as that caused by illness, injury or problems with weight, experiencing the benefits of exercise is absolutely essential!
How Can I Exercise with Limited Mobility?
Embracing exercise can be difficult and overwhelming if you’re facing physical limitations, but it’s crucial to maintaining a positive mood, releasing endorphins and boosting energy. Here are a few simple measures you can take:
- First, Talk to Your Doctor – Your physician can help you determine what your full limitations are and what you’re able to attempt.
- Identify What You Can Do – What kind of movement are you able to accomplish? What parts of your body are affected by issues with mobility? Determine the answers to these questions in order to identify your goals for exercise.
- Work on Flexibility – This will help you to improve your range of motion, prevent injury and reduce pain. Start small, and remember to work on this everyday!
- Look for Low-impact workouts – Low-impact workouts are easier on your joints and your body overall. Some great examples include exercising in the water, walking, biking and light dancing.
- Move Daily – Making exercise a routine part of your day can help strengthen your body and build greater endurance. All movement counts!
- Vary it up – To maximize your body’s potential, remember to incorporate different exercises into your routine if you’re able to. This includes cardiovascular, strength training and mobility exercises.
- Improve Gradually – The best thing that you can do is to approach exercise one small step a time. Be gentle on your body (and yourself!) by starting small, discovering what your body is capable of and improving gradually from there.
Want More Tips on Beginning a Unique Exercise Plan?
Engaging in exercise with limited mobility is part of beginning your very own fitness journey, and it’s an important part! For more Your Weight Matters tips on beginning the journey with fitness, CLICK HERE.
