For individuals looking to enhance their balance and proprioception—the ability to sense the position and movement of the body—personal trainers frequently enough recommend starting with simple exercises and gradually progressing to more challenging routines. One of the moast basic and accessible exercises for many is balancing on one leg.
however, for those living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), this seemingly straightforward exercise can be incredibly difficult. Balancing on one leg for an extended period is a significant achievement for many CMTers.
The fitness industry frequently enough overlooks the unique needs of individuals with CMT. Yet, exercise remains crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Unluckily, many in the disability community face significant barriers when trying to stay active.
The Importance of Exercise Safety for CMTers
julie Stone, a personal trainer certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine and a CMT advocate, works tirelessly to help people with varying abilities overcome these challenges. “The exercise world wasn’t built for people with CMT,” Stone explained during a recent video chat. “Even in the realm of adaptive fitness, the focus is often on seniors or individuals with spinal cord injuries. While some of these exercises are beneficial, there are specific needs that CMTers have that are often overlooked.”
Stone emphasizes the importance of focusing on activities we enjoy while ensuring we incorporate key movements that can definitely help combat CMT symptoms. Safety and individual limitations must always be considered when designing an exercise regimen.
For instance, some exercises like barbell squats and deadlifts may be too demanding for individuals with limited mobility or strength. Instead,finding alternative exercises that are both safe and effective is crucial.Stone herself has adapted her workouts to suit her needs.
“I love dancing, but standing dance would be too hard on my knees,” Stone shared. “So, I do wheelchair dance. It brings me joy and provides a great cardio workout.”
Exercise safety also involves regularly checking in with your body. Being aware of your energy levels, any soreness, and how your body feels during and after workouts is essential for maintaining a safe and effective exercise routine.
By focusing on enjoyable activities and prioritizing safety, individuals with CMT can find ways to stay active and improve their overall quality of life.
For individuals living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, maintaining an active lifestyle can present unique challenges.CMT, a hereditary neurological disorder, affects muscle strength and sensation, making everyday activities—and especially exercise—a delicate balancing act. However, with the right guidance and mindset, staying active is not only possible but also essential for overall well-being.
“I always tell people to meet themselves where they are at because one day you can feel on top of the world and the next, you can feel terrible,” said Sarah Stone, a fitness advocate and CMT patient. Her advice underscores the importance of adapting to one’s current physical state, rather than striving for perfection.
The Role of Professionals in Safe Exercise
According to Stone, working with a professional, such as a physical therapist or personal trainer, is one of the best ways for CMT patients to exercise safely. These experts not only provide tailored guidance but also offer encouragement and practical tips for integrating fitness into daily routines. “Having someone who can watch you to make sure you’re not doing something that can damage your body and to ensure you’re balancing out all your muscle imbalances to actually work the intended muscles rather of overrelying on the muscles that are already strong can be really critically important,” Stone explained.
This approach is especially valuable for CMT patients, who often face muscle imbalances and reduced strength.By focusing on targeted exercises and proper form, individuals with CMT can improve their mobility and overall quality of life.
CMT and the Fitness Community
interestingly, many individuals with CMT have found success in the fitness industry. From personal trainers to fitness ambassadors, these professionals serve as role models, demonstrating that living with CMT doesn’t mean giving up on physical activity. Their stories highlight the importance of perseverance and the transformative power of movement.
For those interested in learning more about CMT and fitness, resources like Movement is Medicine offer valuable insights and inspiration. These platforms connect CMT patients with others who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and support.
A Note on Medical Advice
Note: Charcot-Marie-Tooth News is a dedicated source of information about CMT but does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult your healthcare provider for questions related to your health. The opinions expressed in this article are intended to spark discussion and do not represent the views of Charcot-Marie-Tooth News or its parent company, BioNews.
By embracing a flexible and supportive approach to fitness, individuals with CMT can take control of their health and well-being. Whether through professional guidance or the inspiration of others, the journey toward staying active is one of empowerment and resilience.
