If you are in a wheelchair, you may be unable to use some of the muscles that comprise your lower body. But, even though this may be the case, you can still build strength.
To build your strength, while in a wheelchair, you can engage in the exercises outlined below.
Every single one of the exercises shared below will help you build strength in your upper body. And, if you want more wheelchair exercises, you can read Roll To Fit’s “The 3 Best Exercises For People In Wheelchairs.”
Exercise 01: Shoulder Presses
Our first exercise involves the use of light dumbbells. But, if you don’t have any, unopened soup and bean cans – among a wide variety of other foods – will be more than sufficient.
To conduct our first exercise, you must do the following:
1. Put one dumbbell in each hand.
2. Make sure your palms are facing forward.
3. Bend your arms at 90 degrees.
4. Pull the weight in your left hand to the left side of your head.
5. Do the same for the weight in your right hand.
6. Push both weights upwards until they meet above your head.
7. Bring each weight down to the starting position.
8. Repeat five to ten times.
The exercise outlined above will strengthen your back, chest, and shoulders.
Exercise 02: Tricep Kickbacks
Our second exercise involves the use of light dumbbells. But, just like the first exercise, this can be done with soup cans.
To conduct our second exercise, you must do the following:
1. Put one dumbbell in each hand.
2. Lean forward in your chair.
3. Slowly extend your arms as far as they can go.
4. Bring your arms to your hips.
5. Repeat five to ten times.
The exercise outlined above will strengthen your triceps, arms, and shoulders.
Exercise 03: Shoulder Openers
Our third exercise involves the use of a broom. Or, alternatively, some other long, but relatively thin/light, object.
To conduct our third exercise, you must do the following:
1. Sit in a nice, comfortable position.
2. Hold a long, but light, broom.
3. Put your hands, as close as possible, to both ends of the broom.
4. Raise the broom above your head as far as possible.
5. Hold the position for five seconds.
6. Bring the broom back to the starting position.
7. Repeat five to ten times.
The exercise outlined above will strengthen your back, shoulders, and arms.
Conclusion
You can always build strength. Even while in a wheelchair.
By building your strength while in a wheelchair, you will have an easier time doing the things you really love!
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Max Akin Writing 