There are many reasons you might have mobility issues, including lifelong disability, joint pain, a recent injury, or the results of aging. If you experience any of these situations, a one-size-fits-all cardio class or standard gym equipment may not suit your fitness needs. Instead, work with your gym or personal trainer to try some of the following solutions.

How to Use the Gym With Limited Mobility

1. Build Your Strength

If your mobility problems make it hard to use standing gym equipment, try strength training with dumbbells. These handheld weights allow you to do a full range of arm and torso exercises in whatever locations and positions are comfortable to you. Building muscle in these areas will make daily tasks easier because you’ll be able to lift and hold more weight and have more strength to use mobility aids.

2. Get in the Pool

Many people with strength and mobility issues find that water helps them exercise. The water helps support some of your weight and allows more freedom of movement. A swimming workout or water aerobics class is an effective cardio exercise, meaning it makes your heart and lungs work and can strengthen your cardiovascular system.

3. Try Seated Exercises

Besides lifting dumbbells, there are helpful exercises you can do while seated. For example, if you have reasonable leg mobility, try a set of thigh presses by pushing your thighs together as tightly as you can and holding it for three to five seconds at a time. You can also improve flexibility in your arms, neck, back, and chest by doing seated yoga and stretches like torso twists. A personal trainer at your gym can help you choose the exercises that fit your ability and will benefit you the most.

If you’re looking for a gym that will work with your mobility issues, choose Pro-Fit in Lithonia, GA. Serving DeKalb County, they tailor training programs and classes to the participants, even targeting specific muscles and movements for sports and other activities. Call (770) 856-9796 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or visit the website to see class schedules.