People facing various health challenges are not precluded from the
benefits of exercise. In fact, physical activity can help
increase energy, strength, balance and coordination, as well as ease
pain for these individuals. It is not uncommon, however, for
individuals who are recovering from, or dealing with, a medical
condition to avoid physical activity out of concern over finding the
best form of exercise and proper guidelines. Communication is the
key.
Start with your health care practitioner
Whether you want to begin exercising as a result of your physician’s
recommendations or your own initiative, talk with your practitioner
before you start. Ask for specific programming recommendations. Many
physicians or physical therapists provide instructions for exercises
unique to specific conditions (i.e. back exercises for low back
pain). Inquire about special
limitations of which you should be aware, and ask your physician if
they can refer you to a fitness professional who has experience
training clients with your condition.
Certified fitness professionals make a difference
You may benefit from working with a certified fitness professional
who is qualified to work with you. Again, communication is
important.
Do they have experience working with your condition?
Would they feel comfortable training you? If not, could they refer
you to someone with experience?
Do they provide knowledgeable answers to your questions? Don’t
hesitate to ask what you can expect to achieve with an exercise
program and be sure to discuss your goals. Expect to tell the
fitness professional about your general health, your specific
illness or injury, and your physical activity history. They may
perform evaluations, such as a range of
motion test for a certain joint or cardio-respiratory testing to
measure heart rate during aerobic exercise. The fitness professional
will use this information to establish realistic goals and design a
safe, effective exercise program. If you feel the fitness
professional does not become familiar with your condition, talk with
another professional who will.
Sometimes health and fitness professionals need to talk
Your fitness professional may feel it’s necessary to speak with your
healthcare professional before working with you. The trainer or
instructor may require specific guidance on a safe range of motion
for your joints, or a proper approach if you have risk factors for
heart disease. The fitness professional also may need to clarify
physical activity program goals
even if a physician referred you. These discussions may take time,
but be patient ?thoroughness is in your best interest.
Progression
Regardless of whether you exercise in a group or one on one,
training should progress from an initial, easy effort level to one
that’s more challenging. A group instructor should provide
modifications, if necessary, specific to your condition. A personal
trainer also should offer exercises performed at appropriate ranges
of motion and intensities. Both types
of fitness professionals should be able to explain why they
recommend certain exercises, and provide you with a plan that
details the progress you can expect.
Exercise can be an important, fulfilling part of coping with a
chronic disease or recovering from injury. Coordinate with your
health care provider and fitness professional to make the most of
your exercise experience, and to improve your ability to function
throughout your life.
Denise Wasko
Exercise Leader
http://www.healthyheart.org/
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