Blind People Can Exercise!’
Article by Mel Scott originally published on July 23, 2014
According to officials at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): “Half of the 21 million Americans who have a disability don’t exercise, and that lack of exercise is jeopardizing their health… Among these 11 million inactive adults are people who … have problems seeing… Many of these disabled adults are able to exercise, but don’t do so regularly or at all.” ( HealthDay Reporter on TUESDAY, May 6, 2014.)
I don’t know about you but I don’t want to be included in the 11 million disabled people who live a sedentary lifestyle. It is challenging enough being part of the 21 million who are considered “disabled”. Blindness is no joke that is for sure and there are countless tasks I encounter every single day that I wish were easier but I CAN EXERCISE!
Now for the big confession, I do not like going on long hikes with rough terrain, swimming laps in a pool with lots of other people, nor do I like going to a gym with machines and loud noises. Are you getting the picture? Many of the kinds of fitness programs that are enjoyed by sighted people make me anxious: I’d rather not do them. Fortunately, I don’t have to cause myself more stress. I CAN EXERCISE at home with my own stuff in my own space.
Blindness and low vision really have very little if anything to do with whether or not you feel good in your body. Bodies require movement to stay moving. It is up to us to take charge of our bodies and MOVE IT! So, let’s start a movement to get blind people moving!
And starting small is just fine. And the more you move the more confidence you will build: I promise! It is time to inspire and encourage each other to do what we can do even if we need to start by just wiggling our toes.
That is why I created BlindAlive: a completely described, eyes-free exercise program for everybody who wants to be part of a different club: the healthier, stronger club.
Mel Scott Founder and President, BlindAlive.com
mel@blindalive.com