workout Planner .

Fun Exercises For Seniors In Wheelchairs

Written by Jordan Jan 20, 2023 ยท 3 min read
Fun Exercises For Seniors In Wheelchairs

.

Are you a senior in a wheelchair looking for some fun exercises to keep you active and healthy? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with some easy and enjoyable exercises that you can do right from the comfort of your own wheelchair.

Table of Contents

1. Upper Body Exercises

2. Lower Body Exercises

3. Cardiovascular Exercises

4. Stretching Exercises

5. Tips for Safe Exercise

6. FAQ

7. Pros and Cons

Upper Body Exercises

1. Arm Circles: Sit tall in your wheelchair and extend your arms out to the sides. Slowly circle your arms forward for 10 repetitions, then switch to circling them backwards for another 10 repetitions. 2. Bicep Curls: Hold a weight in each hand and bring them up towards your shoulders, then slowly lower them back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. 3. Shoulder Press: Hold a weight in each hand and bring your arms up to shoulder height. Push the weights up towards the ceiling, then slowly lower them back down to shoulder height. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

Lower Body Exercises

1. Leg Lifts: Sit tall in your wheelchair and lift one leg up towards the ceiling, then slowly lower it back down. Repeat with the other leg for 10-15 repetitions. 2. Seated March: Sit tall in your wheelchair and lift one knee up towards your chest, then lower it back down. Repeat with the other leg for 10-15 repetitions. 3. Toe Taps: Sit tall in your wheelchair and tap your toes on the ground, alternating between your left and right foot. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

Cardiovascular Exercises

1. Wheelchair Racing: Find a safe and open space and race your wheelchair around the area for a few laps. 2. Arm Ergometer: Use an arm ergometer to get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health. 3. Chair Aerobics: Follow along with a chair aerobics video or class to get your heart pumping.

Stretching Exercises

1. Neck Stretches: Gently tilt your head to the side, holding for a few seconds before switching to the other side. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions. 2. Shoulder Rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backwards for 10-15 repetitions. 3. Hamstring Stretch: Extend one leg out in front of you and lean forward, reaching towards your toes. Hold for a few seconds before switching to the other leg.

Tips for Safe Exercise

1. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine. 2. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. 3. Make sure your wheelchair is properly adjusted for your height and weight.

FAQ

Q: Can seniors in wheelchairs still exercise? A: Yes! There are plenty of exercises that can be done from a wheelchair. Q: Is it safe for seniors to exercise? A: Yes, as long as you consult with your doctor and start slowly. Q: What are the benefits of exercise for seniors in wheelchairs? A: Exercise can help improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and flexibility, and improve overall quality of life.

Pros and Cons

Pros: - Exercise can improve physical and mental health. - There are plenty of exercises that can be done from a wheelchair. - Exercise can improve overall quality of life. Cons: - Some exercises may not be suitable for all seniors, depending on their individual health conditions. - It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts to avoid injury.