Staying Fit with a Disability

This Physical Fitness & Sports Month we’re reminded, through a recent CDC Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report, to recognize the importance of physical activity among adults with disabilities. More than 21 million U.S. adults 18-64 years old have a disability. Did you know that these adults are three times more likely than adults without disabilities to have heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or cancer? Regular aerobic activity increases heart and lung function, improves daily living activities and independence, decreases chances of developing chronic diseases, and improves mental health.

Let’s make fitness attainable for everyone in our communities. Here’s how we can start:

image

“Physical Activity is for Everyone,” CDC Vital Signs™. National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Division of Human Development and Disability. CDC. May 2014

Do you or a loved one have a disability? Are you looking for ways to stay fit? Here are some quick tips:

  • Talk to a doctor before you begin.
  • Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activities.
  • Do strengthening activities 2 days a week.
  • Find support and stick with it.

Read more tips on MyHealthfinder, and share them with your loved ones!