Written by Diana Tenney on March 18, 2020
Gain a sense of accomplishment and build self-esteem
Sure cure for boredom and bad TV
Enhance your emotional state
Rebuild lost muscles, unkink muscles and contractures
Regain balance
Tell your story and make new friends
Clear your mind
Encourage faster healing (improve blood circulation)
Pain relief
Improve energy and stamina
Senior Centers have economically priced classes and are familiar with and understanding of disabilities and physical differences. Classes are always adaptive.
YMCAs offer financial assistance with dues and offer a variety of group exercises classes and equipment. Some memberships offer a free one-time personal training session to customize your work-out.
Find a local Gym or Recreational Center that you are comfortable with. Go with a friend or mentor. Ask if personal training sessions are available.
Walking at a faster pace
Yoga
Gardening
Tai Chi
Zumba (or alternate cardio
Line Dancing
Kayaking
Bicycling
Horseback Riding
Golfing
Start slow! - this is a rebuilding process, start small and sensibly
Focus on proper form and proper posture
Be consistent and find something you enjoy
Good nutrition
Confirm your vitamin levels with your doctor
Learn from your structured therapy
Try something more than once - give it a chance!
Be prepared to adapt to your capabilities, it is okay if you don’t do it like everyone else
Diana Tenney is a burn survivor and member of the Phoenix World Burn Congress Wellness Committee. She also serves as president of Burn Survivors of New England.