During these peculiar times of stay-at-home orders and social distancing, many people may be finding it difficult to stay active. Staying home can lead to increased time sitting in front of the TV, phone or computer. Sitting and staying inside are major culprits in creating weakness and stiffness that may lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Our bodies are designed to move. Joint health, heart health, digestive health and immune health all are positively impacted by increased activity levels.
- If your legs and arms are feeling stiff when you get out of bed or a chair, try stretching.
- Stand up and reach up to the ceiling with both arms as high as possible
- Take five deep breaths while reaching to help maintain lung function
- Repeat five times holding each stretch as least five seconds
- Next, sit down with knees straight
- Move ankles up and down to stretch calf muscles and improve circulation
Increased sitting may also cause weakness in the leg muscles. Exercises like standing heel raises and small knee bends or squats can help maintain muscle tone. By doing these exercises 10 to 20 times a day, major leg muscles that are used to walk and maintain balance are exercised.
Moving and staying active have always been a part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you have concerns regarding weakness, pain or balance issues, ask your primary care provider about a referral to The Bellevue Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services. Our physical therapists will meet with you to review risks and recommend ideas to stay active. For more information about our rehabilitation services, call 419.483.4040, Ext. 4279 or visit www.bellevuehospital.com/services/rehabilitation-services.
To help individual's maintain physical activity while home, the American Heart Association has started their Move More Together program which features virtual workouts and pre-recorded workouts you can do from the comfort of your own home. Make sure you consult your primary care provider before beginning any exercise regimen. For more information on the Move More Together program, visit https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/move-more....