Guest Author - Jaclyn Michelle Kratzer

Exercising is not only for people without disabilities. People with disabilities are capable of exercising even if they have very limited movement. Exercising is just as important to your health as eating right.

I think that exercising can be defined as any physical movement or activity. Taking a walk, swimming, kicking your legs or moving your arms are all forms of exercise. The more movement that you can do is definitely for the better. Your body will not only be healthier, but your mind and spirit will soar. The result is a healthy body and spirit.

Before starting any exercise routine, checking with your doctor is a good idea. You certainly do not want to hurt yourself. After you get the green light from the doctor, setting a routine is the next step. Daily exercise would probably be best. If you can only do it certain days then that is fine as well. As soon as you’re in a routine, exercising will look less like work and more a part of life.

You do not have to work the same muscle group each day, but you can alternate groups. For example, try to exercise your arms one day and your legs the next. If you can’t use or move a limb, work on what you can use, and don’t worry about what you can’t. I suggest talking to a physical therapist about various exercises that will be right for you.

Exercising does not need to take a long time. Do it for as long as you are comfortable with and over time, you can increase the time limit. Try not to over do it because you may have sore muscles the next day.

Various companies make exercise equipment specifically designed for those with disabilities. No Boundaries - http://www.powertrainer.com/ has an extensive range of exercise equipment. They have ones available that even move your arms or legs for you if you are unable to or need a pattern to follow. Oasis - http://www.oasisllc.com/english/oasis.htm has bicycles designed so you can move them by hand. That is an excellent way to get a work out.

There are also aerobic tapes created for those in wheelchairs. Seat Aerobic tapes can be found where they are specifically designed for people who are seated. You can check out one at Seated Aerobic Workout - http://choicemall.com/seataerobic/. You can view and do these tapes right in the privacy of your home.

Don’t let your disability stand in the way of a healthy lifestyle. There is something out there for everyone to do. If you need help, please write me at disabilities@bellaonline.com.