Exercising in a Wheelchair with MS…CHEST

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.

CHEST PRESS
-Loop the band around the back of the wheelchair and grasp the handles of the band in each hand at chest level.
-Grasp the band handles back far enough so that you are able to feel the resistance.
-Next, press the bands forward until the arms are straight out in front of you.
-Do not lock the arms. You want to keep the tension throughout the movement and not relax in a locked position.
-Slowly return to the starting position.

CHEST PULL
-Fold your resistance band in half and grip each end in front of your chest, arms away from your body and elbows bent.
-Pull the band apart, bringing it closer to your chest and straightening your arms, and then slowly release it back to the start position. 

* 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!!