Singapore’s Inclusive Fitness Programme Helps stroke Survivors Thrive
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A groundbreaking initiative in Singapore is empowering stroke survivors to regain their strength and independence through inclusive fitness programs.The program, a collaboration between the Singapore National Stroke Association (SNSA) and the Singapore Institute of Technology, equips fitness professionals wiht the skills to effectively assist individuals recovering from strokes.
Maya Seah, a 44-year-old stroke survivor, exemplifies the program’s impact. Following a hemorrhagic stroke in 2017, even simple tasks like climbing stairs became incredibly challenging. “after suffering a stroke in 2017, tasks such as climbing a flight of stairs took me hours to complete,” she shared. However, through dragon boating and gym workouts, Seah has significantly improved her physical capabilities.
The program, aligned with the Disability Sports Masterplan 2024, addresses a critical need identified through surveys of both stroke survivors and fitness professionals. Associate Professor Shamala Thilarajah, president of SNSA and a senior principal physiotherapist at Singapore General Hospital, explained, “Surveys with stroke survivors and exercise professionals over the years have found that the former wanted to be fit while the latter wanted to learn more about how to assist people with disabilities in the gym.” She added, “The next part of it is then building the ecosystem and infrastructure that allows that interaction to happen between hospitals, rehabilitation venues and gyms.”
Workshops held in October and November trained fitness instructors from various organizations, including Sport Singapore and several leading hospitals, in techniques for assisting stroke survivors. The training covered communication strategies, safety protocols, and adapting exercises to individual needs. “That kind of help was available in some gyms, but not every gym, so we wanted to ensure there was help everywhere and people were aware and trained,” Professor Thilarajah emphasized.
The program’s benefits extend to caregivers as well. Melvin Ye, Maya Seah’s husband, expressed relief at the support offered: “She still needs to go somewhere to keep active, but I’m worried about who is there to help her.If I no there is this equipment (and support), it may be easier for her to use it.”
While Seah finds exercising enjoyable, she acknowledges mixed interactions with other gym-goers. “I try to ignore (people like that)…There are mostly nicer people, some of them are students, some are older people, they will offer assistance,” she said, highlighting both the positive and negative experiences she’s encountered.
Catherine Lee, a 65-year-old who suffered an ischemic stroke in 2020, also benefits from the program. “We have to constantly be on the move and exercise,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of continued physical activity in her recovery. Her experience underscores the broader impact of this initiative, which aims to create a more inclusive and supportive fitness environment for all individuals with disabilities.
This Singaporean initiative offers a compelling model for other countries seeking to improve access to fitness and rehabilitation for stroke survivors. The focus on training fitness professionals and creating inclusive gym environments demonstrates a commitment to empowering individuals and improving their quality of life.
Post-Stroke Fitness: A New Approach to Recovery
A groundbreaking program is transforming the way fitness instructors work with stroke survivors, offering a more effective and compassionate approach to rehabilitation. The initiative focuses on equipping fitness professionals with the specialized skills needed to support individuals recovering from strokes,addressing the unique challenges they face in regaining strength and mobility.
The program’s impact is evident in the experiences of participants. One stroke survivor, a former sales manager, described the difficulties she encountered: “I realised that some days when I was down with flu and covid, I couldn’t exercise for almost two weeks as I was very tired, I could feel everything stiffen up.” This highlights the need for tailored support and understanding within fitness settings.
Victor Ng, a senior fitness instructor involved in the program, shares his experience. He recounts his initial uncertainty when assisting a gym-goer with slurred speech: “As fitness instructors, we are quite unsure of how to engage these people, but when I came for this course, I learnt a lot of different ways that we can do so.” This change underscores the program’s success in bridging the gap between conventional fitness instruction and the specialized needs of stroke survivors.
The program equips instructors with practical techniques, such as adapting communication strategies for individuals with speech impairments (using gestures and simple yes/no questions) and addressing physical challenges like releasing clenched fists caused by spasticity or muscle contractures. This comprehensive approach ensures a safer and more effective workout experience for stroke survivors.
The program’s success offers a valuable model for fitness centers and rehabilitation programs across the united States. By adapting and implementing similar training initiatives, fitness professionals can better serve the growing population of stroke survivors, improving their quality of life and promoting prosperous recovery.
This initiative highlights the importance of specialized training for fitness professionals working with individuals facing unique physical challenges. The program’s focus on communication, adaptation, and understanding creates a supportive environment where stroke survivors can safely and effectively pursue their fitness goals.
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A groundbreaking program developed in Singapore is helping stroke survivors reclaim their strength and independence by making fitness accessible and safe for people with differing needs.
This innovative initiative weaves together the expertise of fitness professionals with the specific requirements of stroke recovery,creating a more inclusive habitat for rehabilitation and overall well-being.
Understanding the Need
dr. Aaron Lee, a leading neurologist and rehabilitation specialist at Singapore General Hospital, discusses the crucial role fitness plays in stroke recovery and the lack of specific resources available:
“Stroke often results in significant physical limitations. Simple tasks, like walking or climbing stairs, become major challenges. While traditional physiotherapy is essential, we recognized the need for accessible and sustainable fitness programs tailored specifically to stroke survivors.”
Lee points out that many stroke survivors want to engage in physical activity, but traditional gym settings can be intimidating and lack the necessary understanding of post-stroke needs.
Building a Bridge: Training Fitness Instructors
Michelle tan, a certified fitness instructor and program participant, shares how the training transformed her approach to working with stroke survivors:
“Initially, I was unsure how to effectively assist someone with speech difficulties or limited mobility. The program equipped me with practical strategies, such as using visual cues, adapting exercises, and being mindful of potential spasticity. Now, I feel confident and prepared to create a safe and encouraging environment for all my clients.”
Tan emphasizes the importance of this specialized training in building both the instructor’s confidence and the client’s trust.
A Holistic Approach
The program goes beyond physical exercise. It also addresses the psychosocial aspects of stroke recovery.
Janet Goh, a stroke survivor participating in the program, describes the emotional benefits:
“Coming to these classes has not only helped me regain my strength, but it’s also given me a sense of community.It’s truly inspiring to connect with others who understand the challenges we face, and the instructors are incredibly supportive and motivating.”
This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical health, mental well-being, and social support in the stroke recovery journey.
A Model for the Future
The inclusive fitness program in Singapore provides a compelling model for other countries aiming to improve access to fitness and rehabilitation for stroke survivors.
Dr. Lee concludes by highlighting the program’s lasting impact:
“This initiative is not just about regaining physical abilities; it’s about empowering stroke survivors to lead fulfilling lives. By bridging the gap between fitness and rehabilitation, we’re enabling them to participate more actively in their communities, regain independence, and achieve their personal goals.”