How to Exercise with Limited Mobility

Adaptive exercises can help older adults increase independence

Adaptive fitness is personal training tailored for those with disabilities. The workouts are adapted to the needs of the individual. These workouts might include strength training, stretching, Pilates, massage, core work, and cardio.

Disabilities that cause difficulties at the gym vary wildly, and the root of the problem can be very different from one person to another. Dr Jason Koh, notes that while the challenge may be great, he has seen time and time again that adaptive fitness exercises have helped change the lives and increase the quality of life for many — no matter how different they may be.

Being a board-certified physiatrist, Dr Koh often works with the 55-year-old-plus population, and whether it is a result of an illness, injury or just the product of aging, the biggest thing he hears from this group when discussing goals and outcomes is, “I want to keep my independence.”

Dr. Jason Koh, DO, co-medical director, Memorial Care Rehabilitation Institution at Long Beach Medical Center.