Exercising with a Health Challenge
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 healthcare practitioner
Whether you want to begin exercising as a result of your
physician’s recommendation 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
cardiorespiratory 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 want to 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 healthcare provider
and fitness professional to make the most of your exercise experience, and to improve your
ability to function throughout your life.
Conditions that may require special exercise guidelines
Exercise programs are modified so you receive the benefits
of exercise while minimizing the risk of aggravating your health condition. A number of
health conditions require exercise- program modifications. This list is not exhaustive, so
speak with your health practitioner regarding exercise-program modifications or
limitations specific to your condition.
Cardiovascular disease and risk factors:
- hypertension
- elevated blood cholesterol
- diabetes
- angina
- post-heart attack or post-bypass
- heart valve disease
- peripheral circulatory disease
Breathing conditions:
- asthma
- emphysema
- Bone or joint conditions:
- low-back pain
- osteoporosis
- post-surgical/rehabilitation
- arthritis
Other conditions:
- neuromuscular (stroke, Parkinson’s disease,
epilepsy, fibromyalgia)
- vision or hearing impairments
- pregnancy
- psychological disorders
- mental handicaps
The above is re-printed with Permission from The American
Council on Exercise® (www.acefitness.org)
Fit Facts are taken from ACE FitnessMatters®
magazine. Want more information like this delivered directly to your home? ACE
FitnessMatters, a bimonthly magazine, is the source for the most accurate, up-to-date
fitness information you need to live a healthy, active life. Subscribe to ACE
FitnessMatters online at http://www.acefitness.org/fitnessmatters or call
1-800-825-3636.
The American Council on Exercise® of San Diego,
California (ACE®) does not endorse or promote the companies, products or services that
reside on this website. ACE does not receive revenue generated from any organizations that
advertise on this website. Copyright 2005 American Council on Exercise. All Rights
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