Exercises

• If you have a disability, wheelchair accessible exercise machines will allow you to maintain cardiovascular health exercises using your arms and legs while remaining in a stationary position. Most wheelchair ergometers use some form of hand or foot pedal for the basic motion.
  
  The following exercises using an ergometer will help you to increase strength, flexibility, muscle tone and mobility. However, before you begin any exercise you should warm up for 5 minutes with moderate stretches.
  
  Push-ups
  To begin, put the brakes on your wheelchair. Put both hands firmly on your arm rests. Using your arms lift your body a little so that your bottom rises up slightly off the seat, then in an even motion return your body to the chair. Repeat this motion in sets of five taking breaks between each set. Do several sets daily, but don't overdo it as you could cause injury to your arms.
  
  Arm Pulls
  Use a resistance band secured to a door handle, pole, hook or the arm of your wheelchair and pull towards you in a smooth fashion. Wheeling resistance can be altered by changing the tension applied by the brake to the rear roller. Wheel velocity can be measured by placing a reflective marker on the wheel. Keep pulling your self back and forth. Rest a few minutes then start again.
  
  Leg Extensions
  Attach ankle straps around your ankles. If you have drive cords on your ergometer, clip the drive cords onto the ankle straps. Sit with your legs bent and grab the sides of the wheelchair arms for stability. Alternate your legs by extending one leg until it is straight then bring your leg back to start position and extend the other leg. Legs are continuously moving. Take a break then extend both legs until straight and do several sets.
  
  Ergometers can be purchased at sporting goods retailers or from specialized dealers.
  
  As with any exercise program, a doctor should be consulted before using ergometers, especially if you have certain heart or lung conditions or physical limitations such as any joint problems.