Stay Active and Stay Healthy

Staying active helps you stay healthy.

• Talk to your doctor before you start new exercises
• Try to exercise every day
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes every time you exercise

Talk to your doctor before starting new exercises.

Your doctor will check your:

• General health
• Medications
• The way you move

Talk to your doctor about:

• Which exercises are best for you
• How to stay safe while exercising

• Riding a bike
• Dancing to music
• Going for a walk or taking a hike
• Arm cycling
• Yoga or Tai Chi
• Try different kinds of exercises to decide what you like best.

People who have trouble moving their body can also exercise.

• If you use a wheelchair, you can lift weights, stretch, or swim.
• Learn more about exercising in a wheelchair:
  • Ask your doctor or people at the gym about which exercises are right for you.

You can exercise while you do other things.

While you watch TV, you can:

• Stretch during commercials
• Go to the TV to change the channel
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator
• Cleaning house is also a great way to exercise

Start off slowly.

• Start by walking or slowly doing a physical activity.
• Try going a little farther and longer each day.
• Exercise with someone else.
• It’s easier to exercise with a friend.

For more information on how to live a healthy life:

• Exercise and Fitness Advice for People with Disabilities
• Safe Exercise Guidelines