Image via Wikipedia

Many people who use a wheelchair may experience physical issues such as stress in the neck and shoulders. Wheelchair exercises can help reduce the stress and pain, as well as adding strength and muscle tone to the individual. Other positive aspects of wheelchair exercises include flexibility and weigh control — and they can help elevate the mood. Here are a few wheelchair exercises.

Resistance training will build strength through using equipment such as stretch bands. These types of exercises target specific areas of the body. These bands can be used for a variety of exercises including trunk and shoulder rotations and leg extensions.

Yoga practice is not only beneficial to the physical body, but to the mental one as well. You can often find yoga classes designed especially for people in wheelchairs. Yoga can improve flexibility and mental health.

Strength training uses dumbbells and other types of weight to improve an individual’s strength level. Many people who started their exercise programs using resistance training, find that the next step is to move to strength training.

Many gyms today are adding programs that recognize the needs of people in wheelchairs or who have other disabilities. Joining a gym will usually give individuals the motivation to continue a regular workout regime. Make sure to find a gym that provides machines are flexible to the needs of the user. For instance, look for weight machines where the seats swing out and have straps or other devices to help keep legs and feet in place.