Many people assume that using a physical disability limits you. Well, think again. Exercising with a physical disability is simpler than it might seem.
The time limit to make a medical negligence claim for the disability may we over, but i am not saying you can't live an existence full of exercise like other people! In fact, there are plenty of exercises to test that are inclusive and adaptable for people with a variety of disabilities.
In this article, we explore the best sports and work outs someone with a physical disability could possibly partake in. We provide a few ideas to make sure you achieve this safely. Happy sporting!
The Best Sports related to a Physical Disability
What's brilliant about the increasing accessibility these days is the fact that numerous sports have exposed for those who have disabilities. Whether they've been adapted to match different physical abilities, or are simply more accessible in general, there's plenty available.
Taking probably the most common physical disabilities as examples, we've listed the best sport that may work for you.
The Best Sports for Wheelchair Users
Some of the most common disabilities, including spina bifida and purchased spinal injuries, require a wheelchair. This means the person will have limited movement within their body due to their seated position.
For wheelchair-users who have functioning upper-bodies, there are a huge variety of sports available to try. Included in this are, but are not restricted to:
- Wheelchair basketball
- Wheelchair rugby
- Sailing
- Tennis
- Cycling utilizing an adapted bicycle
- Fencing
- Dance
- Hockey
- Skiing
- Karting
- Archery
- Paragliding
- Abseiling
- Canoeing or kayaking
The Best Sports for those with Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy affects physical movement in varying degrees. For many, movement is simply a bit stiff, and the limbs may be weak. For others, challenge with walking and insufficient control with movements might be experienced.
Depending on this degree, there are a variety of sports open to individuals with CP, including:
- Horseback riding
- Running, for those who are able to walk on their own own
- Archery
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Football
- Canoeing or kayaking
- Hiking
The Best Sports for those with a Brain Injury
An acquired brain injury can cause someone to lose certain motor functions, and might require physiotherapy to enhance symptoms. Seeking the advice of the doctor or physiotherapist is key before you push yourself too much.
That said, some potential sporting choices for someone with motor function issues after a brain injury could include:
- Swimming
- Walking
- Dancing
- Hiking
- Running
- Cycling
Can I Work Out in the club with a Disability?
As you can see, there are a large numbers of sports available for those who have disabilities. Having said that, there might be some who would rather go to the gym for their weekly bit of exercise. So, is that this possible?
Of course it's! Depending on the disability, there's a huge range of exercises a person can check out. Ideas for gym exercises to try could include:
- Cardiovascular exercises on the running machine, elliptical or spinning machine.
- Strength training, using weights in a number of ways.
- Flexibility exercises, like yoga and stretching, to assist with mobility.
- Sit-down workouts, like leg raises and chair exercises.
- Resistance training, using a resistance band to operate on your strength and endurance.
- Using your body alone, you can whip up a workout routine that merely uses your own bodyweight to keep you fit and healthy, including press-ups and sit-ups.
3 Strategies for Exercising having a Physical Disability
Now we all know what sports and work-out workouts are possible with a physical disability, what should you keep in mind before jumping straight in? Well, here are three quick tips to set you off on the path to victory:
1. Think about a Team Sport
As we've seen above, there are many sports out there to test, despite an actual disability. A number of these are team sports, and could be ideal if you're looking to branch out into something new.
All sport is excellent, however, many might feel just a little isolated doing it alone. Instead, a group sport could be the answer to provide you a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment.
What's also brilliant about many of the team sports above would be that the adaptive versions will allow you to meet people with similar disabilities for you. It will not only breed a comprehensive and like-minded environment, you might have life-long friends on the way.
2. Don't Over-Do Things
Pushing on your own is obviously a huge part of any sport. You want to exceed your individual bests and reach your purpose. Having said that, it is important you don't over-do it, as this can cause injury.
To ensure you stay with this, do not rush yourself and hang realistic goals to achieve, rather than massive ones. That will help you with this particular, why not download a good work out plan online to make sure you control your progress? By continuing to keep things achievable, your physical and mental health is a lot more prone to keep on track.
3. Bring a Friend
If you're thinking of going to a fitness center to lift weights, it might be wise to bring a friend. They can become your spotter when weight-lifting, and may make sure you don't over-do things. They are able to also be there to support and motivate you to hit your gym goals.
Ready to go to a health club?
As you can observe, there are plenty of sports and exercises someone with a physical disability can take part in. Maybe it's a group activity, or a workout during a workout session, exercise will help enhance your mental and physical health. So, as long as your doctor approves, get involved!
The NHS website has some brilliant advice that will help you incorporate exercise to your daily routine. By building it into your life, you are able to ensure you remain fit and healthy.
