Gym-based Physical Therapy for Maximum Recovery
Physical therapy offers valuable assistance to those recuperating from injuries or aiming to improve their mobility with fresh workout routines. It is important to acknowledge that physical therapy yields advantages beyond just recovering from injuries, such as enhancing balance, and movement, and managing medical conditions associated with aging.
Although seeking guidance from a medical professional is crucial, Fitness World, a gym in Burnaby, British Columbia, has gathered a helpful collection of physical therapy exercises that can be done at the gym. In a recent blog entry, they examine the perks of physical therapy and present specific exercises tailored to various parts of the body. Here are some of the highlighted advantages.
Gym-Based Physical Therapy Exercises
Adding physical therapy exercises from the gym to your workout routine can provide many benefits for individuals seeking to improve or maintain their physical health. Here are some advantages of including physical therapy exercises in your gym routine.
Targeted Rehabilitation at the Gym
Specialized rehabilitation is centered on addressing weaknesses, imbalances, or injuries. By adhering to personalized exercise plans developed by a physical therapist or personal trainer, individuals can improve their strength, flexibility, and overall function more effectively.
Improved Flexibility
A new blog post from Fitness World showcased the wide range of physical therapy exercises offered at the gym for enhancing joint flexibility and increasing range of motion. These exercises are especially advantageous for those who are in the process of recovering from orthopedic injuries or surgeries, as they aid in the reinstatement of normal movement patterns.
Balance and Coordination
Physical therapy sessions at a gym often include exercises focused on improving balance and coordination. These activities are designed to reduce the risk of falls, improve daily functions, and increase confidence.
Professional Guidance on Technique
Local gyms that stand out offer personal trainers who provide instruction on correct exercise techniques and form. This is especially beneficial for individuals undergoing physical therapy, as maintaining proper form is essential for safety and achieving the best outcomes.
Mental Health
Engaging in physical therapy exercises provides benefits that go beyond just the physical body, also enhancing mental health. The positive environment of the fitness center and the release of endorphins from working out help cultivate a more positive outlook, leading to reduced stress and an overall improvement in mental well-being.
Popular Exercises Fitness World Recommends
Rehabilitating after undergoing knee and hip surgeries demands a structured and targeted physical therapy regimen. While these exercises can offer benefits, it is crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare provider or physical therapist in developing a customized program tailored to individual requirements and aligned with the particular surgical intervention.
For Hip Replacement:
ANKLE PUMPS
– While lying down, move your ankle up and down, flexing and extending your foot. This helps prevent blood clots and improves circulation.
HEEL SLIDES (HIP)
– While lying on your back, slide your heel towards your buttocks, bending your knee. Slide it back down to the starting position. This helps improve hip flexibility.
HIP ABDUCTION
– While lying on your back, slide your leg out to the side, away from your midline. Hold for a moment and then slide it back. This exercise targets the muscles on the outer part of the hip.
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 advancement. Below are typical physical therapy exercises recommended for ACL surgery rehabilitation.
Early Stage (0-2 Weeks)
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.
Advanced Stage (6 Weeks and Beyond)
These are a few of our favorite 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
LUNGES
– Perform forward or reverse lunges to enhance overall leg strength and stability. Focus on maintaining proper form and balance.
BALANCING EXERCISES
– Stand on one leg with support and gradually progress to unassisted standing. Incorporate balance exercises on
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 here.
About the Kingsway Burnaby, BC, Fitness World location.
Located in Kingsway Burnaby, BC, this Fitness World gym offers a wide range of classical weight equipment, such as free weights, cable machines, and Olympic Lifting Platforms along with exercise classes for every fitness level. Whether you enjoy the calming practice of yoga or the high-energy intensity of kickboxing, they’ve got fitness classes just for you! Take a Pilates class to focus on building core strength and flexibility or enjoy Bollywood and Zumba classes for a heart-pumping dance workout.
Fitness World Kingsway is a premier fitness center dedicated to promoting health and wellness. With a local team of experienced and knowledgeable personal trainers, they help members create and complete Gym-Based P.T. Routines. This local gym is the perfect place to achieve your fitness, your way in a supportive and motivating environment.
The Fitness World in Burnaby has been servicing locals and their workouts since 1959. With a complete equipment upgrade and renovated facilities, this health club has everything you need for a great workout and features a huge fitness class studio with views of the city. Plus, a women’s only gym area for those looking for a more private workout.
