Benefits of Exercise for People with Disabilities
Posted on 18th February 2024 at 10:06
There are support systems available to help disabled individuals recognise the advantages of exercising. Exercise is a crucial part of everyone's life as it can enhance brain health, aid in weight management, and help strengthen muscles. According to the charitable organization CP Sport, exercising can be life-enhancing, leading to increased confidence, motivation, reduced social isolation, and a range of mental and physical health benefits that can significantly improve daily life in the long run. Find out more at CP Sport.
Individuals with disabilities often face challenges when it comes to accessing gyms, swimming pools, and other sporting activities. For instance, if an adult with disabilities wants to access a gym, several factors need to be taken into account:
Challenges to accessing accessible and inclusive exercise
Individuals with disabilities often face challenges when it comes to accessing gyms, swimming pools, and other sporting activities. For instance, if an adult with disabilities wants to access a gym, several factors need to be taken into account:
Is the gym accessible? Does it have widened doorways? Does it have a disabled toilet or a Changing Place toilet, which are designed to support people with limited mobility? Find more information about Changing Place toilets.
Are there lifts available for accessing different floors?
Are the gym staff disability-aware? Do they understand physical disabilities, hidden disabilities, learning disabilities, and neurodiverse disabilities?
Does the individual have the necessary care? Some individuals may require one-to-one support, while others with more substantial impairments may need two-to-one support.
Can the individual access suitable, accessible transport to get to the gym? Individuals who use power chairs or mobility aids may require specific transport.
Is the individual able to afford the activity? If the individual lives in a residential care home, there may be restrictions on personal funds.
Are the gym machines adaptable? Can they be adjusted to suit the needs of individuals with disabilities?
Support from Day Services and Charities
Physical activity can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to Sarah Lilly, a representative from Cerebral Palsy Midlands, it is crucial for disabled individuals to incorporate physical movement into their daily routine as a prevention method. This can lead to better overall health and wellbeing.
Some adults with disabilities require more support and attend day services or receive support from local charities. These services include activities that promote better health and well-being. At Cerebral Palsy Midlands, for example, they offer physical exercise and well-being activities such as tai chi, wheelchair dance, horse riding sessions at "The Riding for Disabled Association" (RDA), swimming or movement in water sessions, and more.
These services ensure that people have the necessary support and care in place, and they won't feel alone while exercising. It's also a good way to connect with people of similar abilities. Charities like Cerebral Palsy Midlands are a fantastic place to visit because they provide disabled people with the extra support they need to live a happy and healthy life.
Do keep an eye out for inclusive activities that you can join in your community or ask your carers to support you.
Here are some suggestions;
FreeWheelin Dance – Inclusive Dance Group – online and in person sessions. Email freewheelin@yahoo.com for more information.
Wheelchair Basketball – Cerebral palsy sport - community level to more competitive leagues. Find out about Wheelchair Basketball.
Wheelchair Rugby – Cerebral palsy sport - Wheelchair Rugby is a full-contact, fast, and dynamic sport that combines elements of rugby, basketball, and handball. Visit CP Sport for more information.
Frame Football – Cerebral palsy sport - Frame Football is an adapted form of football designed for people who have restricted mobility and would normally use a walker or crutches. Get more details here.
This article has been written by Coventry University student Harrison Pearce.
Tagged as: Cerebral Palsy Midlands, exercise, Harrison Pearce, Inclusive and accessible sports, Student blog
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