Help, Due to Physical Problems I Have Difficulty Exercising

“Oh, I can’t exercise. I have knee problems. I can’t raise my arms above shoulder height.” How often do we hear such statements. They may be true, but most problems don’t have to prevent a person from participating in some form of activity to stay fit. The difficulty for most people lies in discovering an approach that suits them.

Today we are all very aware that physical activity and a good diet are vital if we want to achieve and maintain optimal health. A workout helps keep the body and brain healthy as we age. This, in turn, encourages an increase in brain chemicals that help nerve cells grow. Other benefits include stronger bones and muscles, better body tone, and better posture and balance.

But knowledge alone is not enough. Putting good intentions into practice can be very difficult, especially if staying fit hasn’t been a lifelong habit. The consequences of poor diet and inadequate exercise often manifest themselves at a time in life when people find it a real struggle to change attitudes and practices. If you are someone who also has to overcome physical restrictions, this is even more of a problem.

Changing diet and exercise habits is far from easy for adults. That is why we need our children to have a healthy start. There are no quick fixes, regardless of claims that may be made. Discipline and patience are required.

However, the situation is far from hopeless for people who have physical problems. There is a form of exercise for everyone. If you are overweight, have difficulty standing, or balance problems, for example, you can try exercising sitting in a chair.

Help could lie in the purchase of an exercise DVD. However, be sure to consult your doctor before starting a new regimen. There are many methods on offer.

Light balls or weights are a wonderful substitute for machines in gyms if you are a senior, elderly, overweight, or a patient rehabbing from an injury. The use of balls or weights should lead to increased strength, endurance, and joint mobility.

Yoga, which can be done as chair-only sessions, not only helps with breathing and stress, but also improves strength, balance and relaxes joints.

There are also problem-specific DVDs, such as those that help with back pain, fibromyalgia, heart health, high blood pressure, and post-surgical breast cancer rehabilitation. Tai Chi as an aid for diabetes and arthritis has been endorsed by medical experts.

Dancing can be an excellent exercise for the body, mind and spirit. Research has shown that some patients with Alzheimer’s disease can recall forgotten memories when they perform dance steps to music they used to know.

Dance helps people of all ages and physical limitations get and stay in shape. There are even wheelchair dances, which is rapidly growing in popularity. Dancing, especially for older people, can be a great way to exercise and socialize at the same time.

If you can’t or don’t want to attend the dance sessions, put on some music and dance around the house. Don’t forget to spend time warming up and cooling down no matter what form your workout takes!

Never give up and stay focused on the valuable benefits of exercise!