Living with a disability is challenging on a variety of levels. Not only do you have to accept your physical limitations, but you also have to contest with the mental and emotional realities of your disability. Depression amongst people living with a disability is commonplace and highly unfortunate as it robs sufferers of the many joys of life. However, exercise and diet can vastly improve this mental state, as the healthier you are, the better you will feel.
Get a Personal Trainer
No one starts off as a fitness expert and that’s why it’s important to look to someone in the know in order to help you along your journey. Do some research and find a personal trainer in your area that has experience working with people with disabilities as they can help you achieve your goals. Not only will they assist you on a physical level, but will also provide emotional support to keep on going even if it seems impossible.
Do Some Research and Get Inspired
While able-bodied athletes are certainly inspiring, we would argue that athletes with disabilities are even more so! People with all kinds of disabilities overcome their physical challenges to become incredibly successful athletes and they may even have similar disabilities to your own. Find someone to look up to and keep them in mind to stay motivated to keep pushing yourself to the highest level of your physical ability. Just like with online pokies NZ, you’ll be amaze by what can be achieved if you set your mind to it.
Don’t Starve Yourself
If your disability involves challenges with mobility, you may be under the impression that you’ll need to almost starve yourself to stay in good shape. Fortunately, this is simply not true. While your portion sizes may need to be slightly diminished, this doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy a healthy balanced diet. Consult a nutritionist to create an eating plan which will help you work towards your fitness goals and stay trim.
Try a New Workout
While it may seem like an impossibility, the reality is that almost every fitness program can be modified to suit someone with a physical disability. Activities such as swimming and water aerobics can be easily modified to be accessible to all ages, fitness levels, and athletic ability. Be open about your limitations and work alongside an instructor to find a plan that works for you – there is no need to limit yourself.
Visit Your Local Gym
It is estimated that as many as 15-20% of people have some form of disability and it’s for this reason that many more gyms are becoming disability accessible. Visit your local gym and get an idea of what they have to offer you and see if they would be willing to make any necessary changes to make it even more accessible to yourself and others with disabilities.
In conclusion, it’s important to never feel limited by your disability as it doesn’t mean you can’t be fit and healthy!
