Maximize Your Recovery at the Gym with P.T.
Physical therapy is a beneficial option for individuals recovering from injuries or seeking to enhance their movement through new exercises. It is crucial to recognize that physical therapy provides advantages beyond injury rehabilitation, including improvements in balance, mobility, and the management of age-related medical conditions.
While consulting a physician for precise medical guidance is essential, Fitness World, a local gym in South Surrey, B.C., has compiled a useful resource of physical therapy exercises that can be performed at the gym. In a recent blog post, they delve into the benefits of physical therapy and offer targeted exercises for different body areas. Here are some of the highlighted benefits.
Gym-Based Physical Therapy Exercises
Incorporating gym-based physical therapy exercises into your fitness routine can offer numerous advantages for those looking to enhance or preserve their physical well-being. Below are some benefits of integrating physical therapy exercises into your gym regimen.
Targeted Rehabilitation at the Gym
Specialized rehabilitation focuses on targeting weaknesses, imbalances, or injuries. By following customized exercises created by a physical therapist or personal trainer, individuals can enhance their strength, flexibility, and overall function with more accuracy.
Improved Flexibility
A recent blog post by Fitness World highlighted the variety of physical therapy exercises available at the gym to improve joint flexibility and expand range of motion. These exercises are particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from orthopedic injuries or surgeries, as they help in restoring natural movement patterns.
Balance and Coordination
Physical therapy at a gym frequently involves exercises targeting balance and coordination. These routines aim to lower the chances of falling, enhance everyday abilities, and boost self-assurance.
Professional Guidance on Technique
Local gyms that excel provide personal trainers who offer guidance on proper exercise techniques and form. This is particularly advantageous for those in physical therapy, as maintaining correct form is crucial for safety and optimal results.
Mental Health
Participating in physical therapy exercises offers advantages that extend beyond the body, contributing to improved mental health. The encouraging atmosphere of the gym and the endorphins produced during exercise foster a more optimistic mindset, resulting in decreased stress levels and an overall boost in well-being.
Popular Exercises Fitness World Recommends
Recovering from recent knee and hip surgeries requires a systematic and focused approach to physical therapy. Although these exercises can be helpful, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist to create a personalized program that meets individual needs and matches the specific surgical procedure.
For Knee Replacement:
HEEL SLIDES
Lie on your back and slowly slide your heel up towards your buttocks, bending your knee. Slide it back down to the starting position. This exercise promotes knee flexibility.
SEATED KNEE FLEXION
Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Slide your foot back underneath the chair, bending your knee. Hold for a moment and then return to the starting position.
After ACL Surgery
Following ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) surgery, a step-by-step physical therapy regimen is essential to rebuild strength, balance, and flexibility in the injured knee. It is important to adhere to the instructions provided by your healthcare professional, personal trainer, or physical therapist, and to increase exercise intensity gradually depending on your personal advancement. Below are typical physical therapy exercises recommended for ACL surgery rehabilitation.
Early Stage (0-2 Weeks)
QUADRICEPS SETS
Sit or lie down and tighten the muscles on the top of your thigh (quadriceps). Hold for a few seconds and then relax. Repeat frequently throughout the day.
ANKLE PUMPS
While lying down, move your ankle up and down, flexing and extending your foot. This helps prevent blood clots and maintains circulation.
HEEL SLIDES
Lie on your back and gently slide your heel along the bed or floor toward your buttocks. Slide it back down to the starting position. This helps improve knee flexion.
Intermediate Stage (2-6 Weeks)
STRAIGHT LEG RAISES
While lying on your back, lift your leg straight up, keeping your knee extended. Hold for a few seconds and then lower it slowly. This exercise strengthens the quadriceps.
SEATED KNEE FLEXION
Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Slide your foot back underneath the chair, bending your knee. Hold for a moment and then return to the starting position.
ACTIVE KNEE EXTENSION
Sit on the edge of a bed or table with your surgical leg hanging off. Allow your knee to straighten fully, then lift your heel slightly off the surface, activating your quadriceps.
Advanced Stage (6 Weeks and Beyond)
These are a few of our favourite advanced state exercises for those who are around the six week stage of their ACL surgery.
HAMSTRING CURLS
While lying on your stomach, bend your knee and bring your heel towards your buttocks. Hold for a moment and slowly bring your leg back down.
LUNGES
Perform forward or reverse lunges to enhance overall leg strength and stability. Focus on maintaining proper form and balance.
To learn more about the popular exercises Fitness World might recommend for injuries such as hip and knee replacements, as well as for recovering from ACL surgery, sprained ankles, and more, visit their blog.
More about the Semiahmoo, B.C. Fitness World location.
Situated in Semiahmoo - South Surrey, BC, this Fitness World location offers a diverse array of exercise classes suitable for all fitness levels. Whether you prefer the peaceful flow of yoga or the exhilarating intensity of kickboxing, we provide fitness classes tailored to your preferences. Engage in a Pilates session to enhance core strength and flexibility or participate in Bollywood and Zumba classes for a spirited dance workout.
Fitness World Semiahmoo stands as a top-tier fitness center committed to fostering health and wellness. With a dedicated team of skilled personal trainers, This Semiahmoo - South Surrey, BC gym provides an ideal setting to pursue your Gym-based P.T. fitness goals in a supportive and motivating atmosphere.
This local gym boasts a spacious, well-equipped workout area featuring lifting platforms, weights, machines, heavy bags, and a turf section for functional training. Whether you prefer solo workouts with your favorite tunes or guidance from knowledgeable personal trainers who can help you with a gym-based P.T. regime, Fitness World has what you need.