Strength training programs of benefit to the physically disabled

• I am still doing my strength training and I continue to build my self-confidence, improve my balance and coordination, increase my productivity, get more out of life, and I am enjoying myself.
• Conventional thinking and wisdom has discouraged strength training for people with physical disabilities, but in recent years, study after study has contradicted conventional thinking and wisdom and has shown that, when properly administered, strength training programs can great benefit people with physical disabilities.
• In their book, "Conditioning with Physical Disabilities," Kevin F. Lockette and Ann M. Keyes state: "There are many misconceptions about the use of strength training and its potential for people with physical disabilities.
• However, it is clear that strength training can have many benefits in the presence of disability, including enhanced sport performance, increased physical function, increased independence in daily living activities, and fewer medical complications."
• Before starting any type of strength training program, it is important you consult either your physician or physical therapist about your general health to determine the type of strength training that will be the safest and most appropriate for you.
• Safe, injury-free strength training is also important for maintaining and increasing motivation.
• Beginners who do too much too fast are more prone to injury/soreness and may lose motivation as a result and never experience the true benefits of weight training.
• With the right strength-training program, you, too, can do it, have a lot of fun with it, and improve balance and coordination, along with other benefits like: Improved ability to perform activities of daily living; enhanced well-being; weight control, and; decreased anxiety and depression.