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Guest Post by: Justin Bennett
Working out when you’re living with a disability can be tricky. There are several considerations to make every time you get active, from staying safe to making sure you’re utilizing the parts of your body that need strengthening. The good news is, there are many ways to move, so you’re not limited to just one activity. Playing a sport, working with free weights, and swimming are just a few ways you can get in shape. If you’re a senior who needs assistance with staying active at home, consider utilizing the services of The Care Company to ensure that you have a hand when you get mobile. You can also look for technology that will make moving easier.
Look for helpful gadgets
These days, there are tons of tech-based accessories that can help you stay active and keep you safe, from smartwatches that measure blood pressure to a wellness app that tracks your diet or steps for the day. You can also look for a great pair of headphones that will keep motivating music flowing as you move, and you’ll have lots of options depending on your budget and needs. Some of the most popular choices are wireless and connect to your phone via Bluetooth, which make workouts much easier to navigate.
Pick up a sport
Once you have the tech figured out, consider taking up a sport that allows you to have fun while staying active. Talk to your doctor before signing up to ensure your safety, and think about what interests you. Some sports that can be easily modified to match different abilities include golf, cycling, and swimming, and these are great ways to get moving several times a week. Look for facilities in your area that accommodate these activities, and consider asking a friend to join you to make it even more fun.
Take up a relaxing activity
While finding a workout that’s fun can greatly boost your mood, there are other activities you can take part in that will take your mental health into account. Yoga and meditation are wonderful for busting stress, and people of all abilities can take part because yoga is pretty easy to change up with the use of water, a chair, or a soft mat. Not only that, you can choose the intensity of the stretches and poses according to your needs. Try it in the morning as a way to get going for the day, or at night as a means of relaxation after a busy afternoon.
Meditation and mindfulness can be helpful in reducing anxiety and allowing you to feel more in control. When combined with breathing exercises, this activity can be useful for people of all ages and abilities in combating common mental health issues.
Get online
If you’re unsure of where, to begin with, a new workout such as yoga or seated strength training, get online. There are many videos and tutorials available these days for every type of activity, and you might find a supportive community there as well. These videos can be helpful because they allow you to see how a body type similar to yours should move during the workout, and often there are instructions given for safety modifications. As with any workout, talk to your doctor and get the okay to move forward before you begin, especially if you’ll be doing it at home alone.
Staying active when you’re living with a disability can be a challenge, but it’s an important part of remaining healthy and mobile. Remember not to push yourself too hard; take it slow when starting a new workout and give your body time to adjust to the movements.
Are you a senior with daily care needs, or do you have a senior loved one who needs assistance at home? Contact The Care Company for more information about their services.
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