Physical activity is important for everyone. For individuals living with a physical disability, engaging in physical activity can have even greater health benefits. This post will describe some of these benefits and how physical activity can positively impact your brain health, mental wellbeing, physical health, and social connections.

Mental Wellbeing

• Physical activity can boost your self-esteem, mood, endorphins, body image, sense of self, and your confidence in various skills and abilities.
• You may cultivate a sense of empowerment, independence, mastery, and accomplishment as you learn new skills you may not have known you were capable of.
• Physical activity can be enjoyable and fun! It can add meaning to everyday experiences and open up doors for you to try new things.
• Being active can reduce stress and increase your sense of calmness and relaxation.
• You may build resilience and benefit from improved memory, thinking, and intellectual performance.

Physical Wellbeing

• Physical activity can enhance your fitness, flexibility, strength (making for easier transfers in and out of a wheelchair), mobility (enhancing your ability to play with your kids or loved ones), endurance (for things like walking or wheeling long distances) and functional ability.
• Your participation may help reduce other health complications such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
• Physical activity can help you manage some of the symptoms you may experience as a result of your physical disability, such as joint pain or stiffness.
• You may experience improved posture, balance, and decreased mobility limitations.
• Enhanced sleep quality is another potential benefit of regular physical activity. 

Social Wellbeing

• You may expand your social networks and meet new people through participating in physical activity classes or joining exercise groups.
• You can be a role model for your loved ones and encourage them to participate in regular physical activity as well. This will also allow you to spend more time with them when activities are done together!
• Enhance your teamwork skills as you engage in activities with other people or a larger team.
• You may experience a greater sense of belonging and acceptance and a better understanding of the skills you are capable of.

Are you looking for resources during COVID-19? Do you need support to get active?

Start This Year Stronger Together! Access free, in-app health coaching and expert programs about physical activity for adults living with physical disabilities. Connect with peer-to-peer support while helping improve the quality of care for people in Canada who are living with/supporting someone with a physical disability. By joining our Stronger Together community, you’ll have virtual health support in the palm of your hand this winter while learning more about what you can do to improve your health and wellness. Follow along with daily discussions, Q&A with experts, peer insights and take part in a personalized program just for you! Spots are limited so join here now!