Exercising in a Wheelchair with MS…BACK

Exercising when you have multiple sclerosis can be a challenge, especially when you're wheelchair-bound, but it's important to stay active.
Try working out with exercise bands, which can be purchased with different levels of resistance and typically come in a package that allows you to increase the resistance as your strength increases. Each movement will be performed for 3-4 sets. For muscle building, keep the repetitions from 8-10 and for toning from 12-15. Exhale on exertion and inhale at release. Always sit tall in your chair, and keep your abdominals tight. This is a beginner routine so once you're comfortable, add more exercises.

Bent Over Row:
-Place the resistance band under wheels and grasp each handle.
-Bend forward from the waist until your back is parallel to the floor, stretching your arms down toward the floor.
-Pull the handles upward, evenly pulling your shoulder blades together and your elbows toward the ceiling and slowly stretch to the start position.
-Keep your abs engaged to protect your lower back.
-Move your feet closer to the handles to make it harder; closer to the center of the band to make it easier.

Lower Back Extensions:
-Place the resistance band under wheels and grasp each handle.
-Bend forward from the waist until your back is parallel to the floor.
-Keep your elbows bend and tucked in to the sides of the waist.
-Keeping your spine as straight as possible, bend backward from the waist to sit back up and then slowly lower back down to the start position.
-Keep your abs and your spine lengthened. Move your feet closer to the handles to make it harder; closer to the center of the band to make it easier.

*Remember to avoid back injury you must do these exercises slowly without a jerking motion with your back.

* Like any exercise program, please consult your healthcare professional before you begin. Please stop immediately if any of the exercises cause pain or harm to your body.

It's important, especially with MS from a wheelchair, to keep the body moving. You have to stay motivated and...NEVER QUIT!!