Having a stroke is a life-changing event, but regaining your physical fitness makes it possible to lower the risk of having a second stroke within a short space of time. Studies suggest that 77% of people who suffer an ischemic attack survive. Some people are able to return to a sense of normalcy by implementing manageable forms of exercise into their routines.
Overview
The value of exercising after you’ve suffered a stroke can be seen in both physical and mental benefits. Not only will you become stronger and more self-reliant, but you are also less likely to become depressed as a result of your condition with the release of endorphins. It’s also important to note the role of exercise in preventing recurrences and the risk of noncommunicable diseases, made more likely by an attack.
Cardiovascular Exercises
Cardio is one of the best ways to help you regain your motor skills and can be hugely cathartic when done correctly. To start off, stationary cycling can help get your heart rate up while still limiting the risk of any physical endangerment or falling. Once you are a bit stronger, you could then consider branching into aqua aerobics, which is a fun, yet not too physically demanding way to get your blood pumping.
Attire
Uncomfortable workout clothing can be prohibitive. Whilst it’s not necessary to completely transform your fitness wardrobe, it’s important to make sure that certain staples, like your leggings, are comfortable, affordable, and of good quality.
Once you’re ready to perform exercises while standing, you’ll need the correct shoes to help prevent any injury or further strain your muscles. The right workout accessories can help transform your routine from a daily chore into an activity you enjoy.
Exercises for Coordination
A stroke can often leave you unable to perform simple tasks, such as holding a pen. Certain exercises can help you regain that motor control and become far less dependent on your carers. These exercises can begin to feel a bit repetitive, but they are a pivotal part of reteaching your brain how to function correctly. Once you’ve mastered these, actions such as holding a spoon or signing a birthday card will pose less of a challenge.
Building Strength
If you’ve been left wheelchair-bound by your stroke, it’s natural to want to rebuild the strength in your lower body to regain mobility. Traditional exercises should help you gain a major improvement in this area, however, if you have an interest in alternative treatments, aquatic therapy may provide an unusual, but often successful method of strength training.
You could also perform exercises while seated, such as pushing your weight around or doing weighted leg extension exercises. These exercises are able to help you maneuver onto the toilet on your own and thereby become less reliant on a carer. Remember to be patient with yourself during this period - it takes time to regain function and progress is often marked in small increments.
Suffering a stroke can turn your life upside down, so it’s natural to feel a little helpless and frustrated by the cards you’ve been dealt. While you may not be able to regain 100% of your pre-stroke fitness levels back, you’ll find that there is still a multitude of benefits associated with implementing regular exercise into your daily routine.
By Justin Bennett
After suffering a stroke at the tender age of 13, I’ve had to adapt my lifestyle to fit my physical limitations. Along the way, I’ve discovered dozens of helpful products and services to benefit people just like me. You can find my unbiased reviews at onehandreview.com