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UCP’s Sports and Leisure Channel is designed for people with disabilities who are interested in sports and other leisure activities and proposes creative ideas for inclusive community recreation programs, including outdoor adventure activities for people with disabilities.

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Sports & Leisure

Exercise & Fitness

Exercise Principles and Guidelines for Persons with Cerebral Palsy and Neuromuscular Disorders

Introduction:

Health and well being are the result of many factors:

  • Physical activity is one of these factors. Participation in activities of daily living is important for maintaining health; examples are household activities, gardening, and leisurely walking or wheeling.
  • Physical Fitness is another factor such as sports, nutrition, and exercise. This is true for persons of all ages.
  • Exercise is particularly important for persons with disabilities due to cerebral palsy and neuromuscular disorders.

Topics:

Specific Goals:

Exercise Concerns:

Age: Exercise is not reserved for any age group. At all ages, exercise can strengthen bone, enhance mobility, build strength and improve coordination.

Trauma: An appropriate exercise program does not aggravate conditions that accompany cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders.

Fatigue: Exercise does utilize energy; however, by exercising regularly, people build stamina that makes it easier to meet daily demands.

Falls: Exercise does not cause falls or injuries; if done properly exercise improves balance, mobility, strength and coordination that protect against injury in activities of daily living.

Remember:

  • You can do it! Focus the exercise program on your goals.
  • Exercise can be done at home and/or at an exercise facility.
  • You may require specialized equipment or assistance from a person qualified on exercise programs for persons with disabilities due to neuromuscular disorders.
  • Start modestly; each time, begin with a warm-up and stretching period.
  • Gradually increase exercise intensity, duration and frequency.
  • End with a cool-down period.
  • Be alert to danger signals and stop when they occur.
  • An effective exercise program will be beneficial; a poorly planned exercise program can be harmful.
  • Enjoy exercise; however, don't overdo it.

Prepared by:

The United Cerebral Palsy Research and Educational Foundation, with assistance from:

Staff from other organizations and agencies provided technical expertise. A list of contributing persons and organizations is available on request.

Distributed by United Cerebral Palsy Associations, 1660 L Street NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036

© 1999 UCP Research and Educational Foundation

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