Exercise is important regardless of your mobility status. Because the body releases endorphins, the “feel good” hormone, during exercise, people are in a better mood after completing a workout. As a matter-of-fact, studies have shown that an endorphin “high” is just as effective as a prescribed mild anti-depressant.

Regardless of whether you are injured, disabled, have certain illnesses, or a weight problem, that affects your mobility, there are exercises that you can do. People with limited mobility should concentrate on three particular types of exercise:

Cardiovascular

Cardio exercises raise the heart and respiratory rates, and build endurance. If you have limited arm mobility you may still be able to walk, run, dance and do water aerobics in a shallow swimming pool. If confined to a wheelchair, you can use your arms to move your chair.

If you have access to a swimming pool with a chair lift, you can get into the pool and work your arms using the resistance of the water. Perform exercises taking your body’s physical limitations into account that will raise your heart rate.

Strength Training

Strength training will help you build muscle, tone up and improve your balance. If you can’t walk, focus on building upper body strength. If your upper body is disabled, work your lower body. By using resistance bands, free weights or weight machines, focus on strengthening your strongest areas physically. But don’t overlook working your weakest area too within the limits of your mobility.

Flexibility

Flexibility exercises work to improve joint range-of-motion, reduce pain and stiffness, and improve balance. One of the best forms of flexibility exercising is yoga. Find a class that specializes in working with limited mobility individuals as they will tailor a program to you. Because yoga is a whole body exercise program, even if you can’t do all of the poses, (called asanas), you will be able to do some of them. You will still benefit greatly from the breathing and meditation part of a yoga program.

Of course, before starting any exercise program, talk with your doctor or physical therapist about:

• how long and often you should work out
• what type of exercises you should do
• what exercises you should avoid
• if you need to adjust your medication schedule when exercising

Just because you have limited mobility doesn’t mean you can’t still exercise. It just means you have to work within the limits of your ability.