Can People With Cerebral Palsy Do Yoga?
Many people with cerebral palsy (CP) face challenges with movement and muscle control. As a result, some may wonder whether yoga is a good option for them. The good news is that people with CP can absolutely do yoga. Yoga can amazingly help people with CP improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Here’s what you need to know about doing yoga with CP.
Choosing the Right Community and Personal Trainer
When choosing a community and Personal Trainer, it’s important to find one that is familiar with cerebral palsy and understands any unique challenges you may face. Look for an inclusive environment where you feel comfortable and safe. It may also be helpful to find a small group or private class so that you can get the individual attention you need.
The following are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right community and Personal Trainer for yoga for people with cerebral palsy. Firstly, it’s important to make sure that the community you choose is NDIS-registered. This will ensure that you’re able to access the support you need. Fit Your Ability, a division of Fitness Enhancement, is NDIS registered for a variety of core and capacity-building categories. We are registered to the following line items: Assistance With Daily Personal Activities, Development Of Daily Care And Life Skills, Household Tasks, Participation In Community, Social And Civic Activities, Group And Centre-Based Activities, Exercise Physiology And Personal Training, and Innovative Community Participation. Secondly, it’s important to find a Personal Trainer who is experienced in working with people with disabilities. There are a number of ways to find Personal Trainers who have this experience, such as searching online or asking your NDIS support worker for a recommendation. Finally, it’s important to make sure that you’re comfortable with the Personal Trainer you choose. Be sure to ask about their experience working with people with cerebral palsy, and make sure you’re comfortable with their approach to yoga. By following these tips, you can be sure you’re choosing the right community and Personal Trainer for your needs.
Understanding one’s certain restrictions and challenges
Of course, not everyone with cerebral palsy will have the same restrictions or challenges. So, it’s important to communicate with your NDIS Personal Trainer about what you’re comfortable with and what modifications may be necessary. For example, some people with CP find it difficult to sit on the floor. If this is the case, your PT can provide alternatives such as sitting in a chair or using a bolster to support your back.
Additionally, many yoga poses can be modified to make them more accessible. For example, if you have difficulty balancing, you can practice the tree pose by holding onto a chair or wall for support. Or if you have trouble sitting on the floor, you can do the Cobra pose by lying on your stomach on a blanket or towel instead.
The Benefits of Yoga
Yoga has a wide range of benefits and can be an effective form of exercise for people with cerebral palsy. While cerebral palsy can cause muscle stiffness and impair movement, regular yoga practice can help to improve flexibility and range of motion. In addition, yoga can help to build strength and endurance, improve balance and coordination, and reduce stress levels. Furthermore, yoga is often tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities, making it an accessible form of exercise for people with disabilities. As a result, yoga can help people with cerebral palsy to live healthier and more active lives. Although yoga classes are widely available, many people with cerebral palsy may benefit from working with a Personal Trainer who is specifically certified in disability-inclusive yoga instruction. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for personal training services for people with disabilities, making it easier for people with cerebral palsy to access yoga classes that are tailored to their needs.
If you or someone you know have CP and have been hesitant to try yoga, we encourage you to give it a go. Our certified Personal Trainers are specially trained to work with individuals who have diverse needs and can help you get started on the right foot. Yoga can provide many benefits for people with CP, so don’t miss out on all that this practice has to offer. Are you ready to join us on the mat?
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