Staying Fit After Amputation

Staying fit is an important part of every individual's health and well-being. That being said, it is very important for amputees to have a consistent exercise routine. According to The Amputee Coalition, all areas of fitness, including strength, resistance, endurance, and flexibility, are best for amputees when coming up with a workout routine. This big range of exercises gives individuals the power to decide which exercise works best for their own body. The list below provides different forms of exercises amputees should consider trying.

1. Athletics

Sports are a great form of physical activity and come in many different forms. This can range from tennis to rock climbing to riding a horse - the sky's the limit. Try as many sports as you like to discover which one best suits you. Also, make sure you feel passionate about that particular sport when choosing. If you enjoy the sport, it will provide mental benefits as well.

2. Stretching

Stretching is one of the most important exercises a routine can present. Stretching increases flexibility, which is a great way to enhance muscles endurance for the future. Flexibility is important for amputees. Lower extremity amputees need flexibility in their hip flexors. A good hip-stretching exercise is to lie on your stomach for ten to twenty minutes twice a day. Simple routines like this can make a huge difference in your body.

3. Balancing

According to an article by Livestrong, many amputees suffer from balance issues. Simple balance exercises can help achieve better balance and better form in the overall body. These exercises can be as simple as switching from balancing on one leg to balancing on the prosthetic leg. Better body balance allows you to have more control over your own movements. It is an underrated exercise skill and should be practiced every day.

4. Abdominal Strength

Keeping stomach muscles strong will help in every other form of exercising and be highly beneficial for the body. Adding muscle to the core is essential for amputees. A simple exercise for abdominal strength is a sit-up. Since sit-ups can be difficult for leg amputees, it is best to have something holding the legs down. For example, have a person help hold your legs or use a weight to hold them down. Getting the most out of this abdominal exercise will depend on how comfortable you feel, so make sure to choose options that best suit your body.

Having a prosthetic does not mean you cannot stay fit. Being able to find the exercise that best fits your own body is the first step. The next step is enjoying the process. If you are having trouble deciding on an exercise to try or need further information, contact one of our experienced Great Steps practitioners - they are always happy to help. Now go out there and challenge your body and be happy with the results!

Inspiring Amputee Athletes

Motivation and inspiration come from deep within yourself. They can be hard to find, especially when you are faced with challenges throughout your life. These 5 amputees have found that something special within them and managed to prove time and time again how, if you work hard enough, you can achieve your goals.

Amy Purdy

At the young age of 19 years old, snowboarder Amy Purdy contracted bacterial meningitis and had less than a 2% chance of living. However, she was able to prove the statistic wrong and pulled through with the loss of both of her legs below the knee and a kidney replacement from her father. She had started snowboarding at age 15 and did not want to give up on her dream. After her surgery she searched and searched for prosthetics that would allow her to continue her dream but was not having any luck, so she built her own. She remained involved in and co-founded Adaptive Action Sports, a non-profit organization which is a branch of Disabled Sports USA.  She has won several medals throughout her years, her most recent being the bronze medal in the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games.

Aimee Mullins

Aimee Mullins was born with a condition called fibular hemimelia resulting in the amputation of both of her legs below the knee. Throughout her life, she engaged in numerous activities including softball, skiing, track and field, acting, and even modeling. She was the first amputee in history to compete in the NCAA. She also competed in the Paralympics in 1996 for track and field, setting world records in the 100-meter dash , 200-meter dash, and long jump.

Terry Fox

A Canadian favorite, Terry Fox discovered he had a malignant tumor in his right leg at the age of 19. He had his right leg amputated 6 inches above the knee but still had dreams of running. He began a charity event called The Marathon of Hope to raise money for cancer research and awareness. He ended up running over 3,339 miles and would have gone for more, but his cancer came back and he was forced to quit. Ultimately, cancer cost Terry his life but there is no doubt that Terry Fox had built himself a legacy and he proved that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. The Marathon of Hope fund now totals $27.8 million, which has been allocated to cancer research in the Terry Fox New Initiative Programs of the National Cancer Institute of Canada. The Terry Fox Foundation announced in 2014 that over $650 million had been raised to support cancer research in Terry's name.

Noah Galloway

Noah Galloway has proved himself time and time again of his hard work and dedication.  He was injured during the Iraq War, losing his left arm above the elbow and left leg above the knee. After all the events that were happening in Noah’s life, he embarked on a very long strenuous journey. Like too many war veterans, he was driven to self-destructive paths to cope with the loss. It took him some time to finally realize he was worth more and able to do more with his life so he began to turn things around. He set goals to get back in shape, to be healthier, and to ultimately inspire others. Today, Noah is a personal trainer- motivating, pushing, and cheering on his clients while also pushing himself. He has also become an amazing public speaker, traveling all over the country to share his story and inspire others to make a difference. One of his more recent appearances was on ABC’s hit series, Dancing With the Stars. He has created the “No Excuses Charitable Fund” to help raise money for organizations such as Operation Enduring Warrior and the YMCA of Alabaster, AL. He was also named the 2014 Ultimate Guy from Men’s Health Magazine.

Jessica Long

Like Aimee Mullins, Jessica Long was born with fibular hemimelia resulting in lower leg amputation at the age of 18 months. She was involved in many sports throughout her younger years, including cheerleading, ice skating, biking, and rock climbing- But nothing quite compared to swimming. She worked and worked to better herself and eventually enters the international stage at the 2004 Paralympic Games at the early age of 12, earning herself 3 gold medals. She has won multiple gold medals over 3 Summer Paralympics. She is truly a strong hearted and highly motivated woman and a big inspiration.