Strength Training for Adults with Spina Bifida

Pressure sores, obesity, weak bones, scoliosis and other spine deformities, pulmonary complications, depression and isolation are secondary conditions associated with Spina Bifida.  A likely cause of some of these associated conditions is the lower rate of cardio-vascular and strengthening activities, in which individuals with disabilities engage. 

According to the CDC plan, Healthy People 2010, only 10% of people with disabilities participate in even one organized health activity.  One reason may be that most community team sports and organized activities encourage aggressive and competitive behavior, as in professional sports.  The goal is to win, and not to get together, have fun, and benefit from exercise. 

Strength training is a component of the Cincinnati Recreation Commission's Division of Therapeutic Recreation. This program targets the physical and motor planning challenges of Spina Bifida and will allow individuals to develop the confidence, strength and cardio-vascular endurance required to participate in other community-based inclusive leisure activities, such as canoeing, knee boarding, sled hockey, and adapted tennis, basketball or soccer and avoid secondary conditions.

Geared to adults, supervision and guidance is provided on weight training equipment. Each leader has a degree in Therapeutic Recreation. They are professional and hold safety in the highest regard. Setting and recording personal goals to increase strength and flexibility is an important part of the program.  The adult strength training is year-round.

For more information about either of these programs, contact Ann-Marie Stuart at annmarie.stuart@cincinnati-oh.gov
or call (513) 352-2549.