Do you know someone who uses a wheelchair regularly? Or do you have a loved one who is using a wheelchair for some time? Should we do sports activities despite using a wheelchair? Exercising will help you maintain your health and fitness, especially as the use of a wheelchair affects the health of the heart and leads to increased pressure on certain muscles in the upper body, which increases the possibility of stress or other injuries.

Stay active while using a wheelchair

Do not worry, there is always an activity or sport that is suitable for you, no matter what your health condition or level of physical ability. Physical activity is limited to the gym or competitive sports.

Whatever sport you do try to:

• Do at least 150 minutes a week of aerobic exercise in addition to
• Exercises that help strengthen your muscles for two or more days a week

What is the appropriate activity?

The type of activities that are right for you depends on your level of physical ability and the activities you prefer. Consult your doctor about the appropriate sports for you and discuss different options with him. You can do a range of exercises to strengthen the muscles of the heart and blood vessels.

Activities you can do

• Swimming
• Wheelchair exercises
• Use a suitable rowing machine
• Wheelchair sports such as basketball, netball and badminton

When it comes to muscle-strengthening exercises, you should pay special attention to certain muscle groups such as the back muscles because they are used less and are weaker.

Talk to your doctor about

• How much physical activity do you currently do each week?
• How many times?
• When do you exercise?
• Intensity of activity?
• What types of physical activity do you enjoy now or in the past?
• How can you add more physical activity to your life?
• What are the programs and places where you can practice sports?
• Are there support groups?
• Names of fitness and health professionals to provide physical activity options that suit their special abilities.

You can speak with a doctor at Health and Style Medical Center before you begin to ensure a healthy start…