Exercise is important for everyone. However, it is always important to be checked by a physician before embarking on any workout plan. If there are any limitations, an exercise regimen can be designed around the health problems.

     According to The Mirkin Report, “All diabetics should exercise, but they should not exercise when their blood sugar level is above 350, when they have ketones in their bloodstream or they are sick. They should eat and take their medications before they exercise and they should always have a source of sugar available in case their blood sugar levels drop too low during exercise.” 

     If you are limited to a wheelchair, exercise is still important. As I mentioned in last month’s article about exercise, “The less you move or are able to move, the less you aerate your lungs (take full, deep breaths). That can lead to chronic respiratory problems and pneumonia.”

     Robert S. Dickinson, L.Ac, an internationally prominent lecturer in martial arts and Oriental Medicine, suggests the following exercises for wheelchair or bed bound people. 

     Align the spine as much as possible in your chair, at the same time becoming as relaxed as possible. If necessary, this may be done in a reclined position. To facilitate a relaxed body, concentrate on "smiling" into the body, which can have a relaxing effect. If movement of the arms is possible, raise them at the sides palm up in a circular, gathering movement. While doing so, imagine that you are gathering in energy from all around you and bringing it into the body. Inhale energy as arms go up and exhale as the arms come down, with palms down, in front of the body, allowing the energy to sink down into the lower abdomen. Remember to smile and relax. If you are not able to move your arms, imagine these exercises as vividly as possible and concentrate on your breathing and relaxation. 

     Inhale as you raise the arms in front of the body, arms extended, palms down. Bring the arms into the chest, and exhale as the arms float down in front of the body. Smile and relax. 

     Rub hands briskly together until they feel quite warm, and place on the abdomen, breathing in as the abdomen expands and exhaling as the abdomen contracts. Remember to smile and relax.” 

     In an article by Gay Frankenfield RN, WebMD, Medical News, December 1999, it was reported that recent studies on mice have indicated that exercise stimulates the growth of new brain cells and improves memory. This is exciting news for patients who suffer from memory loss. In the same article, studies are cited that show “exercise can also improve mood.” Cancer patients were “able to reduce depression by forty percent by exercising.”

     Whatever your limitations, besides consulting your physician about your proposed exercise program, it is important to have the correct program designed by someone that is an expert. Certified Personal Trainers (CPT) have studied, trained and have been tested for this purpose. Even if you do not have any particular health limitations, it is important to be taught the correct way to do the exercises to prevent injury. Many sports injuries happen because of poor conditioning and/or incorrect procedure. Again, the CPT is an important consultant. Someone who works out frequently may think they can show you correctly. However, perhaps they have been doing it wrong and have been lucky that no injury has occurred. It is best to be leery of those who “see one, do one, teach one.” Also, because of differences in body structure, women are more likely than men to be injured during an incorrectly executed exercise.

     Proper diet, exercise and attitude can do much to improve one’s health and maximize independence. Therefore, it is important to seek out those most knowledgeable in learning how to develop your plans for your best life. 

     For a free sample copy of the Mirkin Report on the latest breakthroughs in medicine, fitness and nutrition, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to The Mirkin Report, 5618 Shields Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817. Dr. Mirkin's Home Page on the World Wide Web is www.wdn.com/mirkin. Robert S. Dickinson, L.Ac, can be reached via e-mail at: building@newhorizons.org 

© 2000 Joy B. Burch RN All Rights Reserved