Fitness Equipment Options for the Disabled
If you are disabled you may find it difficult to come up with a good exercise program. However, more and more fitness equipment is being specially designed to fit the needs of people who have disabilities, whether they are temporary disabilities due to an injury or if it is a permanent disability. Many of these products are also useful for people who are recovering from an injury.
One important piece of fitness equipment that people with disabilities use is the recumbent steppers. This allows people to use a step machine from a seated position. They are portable and are generally used on a hydraulic stepping machine which responds to the amount of pressure applied. A recumbent stepper can help one improve balance, improve endurance, strengthen the lower body and lose weight without impacting the joints or back.
Many people also like to use the recumbent bike. There is a standard recumbent bike that is available for people who are able to transfer to a seat. Being in the sitting position makes it much easier on the joints and back. People who have experienced loss of mobility due to arthritis also find this machine great.
If you are confined to a wheelchair then you will find the ergo meter to be a great option. Some of these ergo meters allow a wheel chair to actually be directly rolled onto the machine. Other more portable styles can be brought to the table to work out the upper body or placed on the floor to work out the lower body. You can use an ergo meter for a cardiovascular workout as well as for strength building exercises.
People who are in the process of rehabilitating muscles find the sit-to-stand machines to be wonderful. It allows people who are currently in a wheelchair to do sitting and standing exercises without a therapist to manually lift and lower the person. The seat is adjustable as well as the percentage of assistance needed.
Many people who are in rehabilitation also like stretching machines. These come in a variety of options. They are available in simple rollers that slip onto your shoes to do ankle stretches. They are also available in full body machines. Many people who suffer pain because of a lack of flexibility in major muscle groups find that they are able to increase their flexibility. They are also great at improving circulation which can help prevent degenerative diseases like arthritis or osteoporosis.
No matter what type of fitness equipment you choose to use it is important that you consult and work closely with your doctor or physical therapist to design an exercise routine. Certain exercises can make certain injuries even worse. You want to be sure to incorporate both fun and effective exercises into your routine to avoid the monotony. Be sure that you pay special attention to what your body is telling you. If it feels like you need to stop then be sure that you take a break and give your body a rest.