Top Ten Tips to Stay Active as Someone With Cerebral Palsy

By Stacey Francis

There are many ways for individuals with Cerebral Palsy to stay active. Here are ten:

1. Stretching – Seeing as people with CP have really tight muscles that are always contracting, stretching is very important! I would encourage people to stretch every day – multiple times a day if possible!

2. Walking– Walking is important as it prevents muscles and joints from getting too stiff, keeps your heart pumping and your blood flowing. If this isn’t possible, any continuous movement is good – arm rotation, leg movement etc.

3. Yoga– CPABC offers adaptive yoga both in Vancouver and Victoria

4. Swimming– Speak to a Recreational Therapist at GF Strong regarding getting into an adaptive swim program.

5.Wheelchair sports– Wheelchair Floorball (Wheelchair Hockey), Wheelchair Rugby

6. Going to the Gym– Leisure Access cards offer subsidized rates to various gyms (inquire at your local community centre!)

7. Dancing– CPABC offers Dance Without Limits in Richmond and in Surrey.

8. Physiotherapy- GF Strong can set you up with an independent physio program that best suits you.

9. Horseback riding– Can be pricey but, if you can afford it, can do wonders for your range of motion and core strength. (Sometimes there are sponsorship opportunities or financial assistance).

10. Zumba– Zumba is possible in your chair and incorporates both dance and exercise! Zumba Gold may be suitable for you! For more information, go here: http://www.zumbavancouver.ca/classes.php (May qualify for a subsidized rate with the leisure access card).