Sport and Fitness with Incontinence: Adaptive Exercises and Activities
Want to learn how you can keep moving, stay healthy, and even have fun doing it? Let's dive into how you can stay active and upbeat, focusing on the joy of movement.
Managing incontinence while maintaining an active lifestyle can have it’s challenges, but it certainly doesn't have to sideline you from the exercises or sports you love.
Many individuals with incontinence might shy away from sports and fitness activities due to fear of leaks or discomfort.
However, a few clever tweaks and a dash of know-how, you can keep moving, stay healthy, and even have fun doing it. Let's dive into how you can stay active and upbeat, focusing on the joy of movement.
Understanding the Link Between Incontinence and Exercise
Incontinence affects millions of people and is caused by all sorts of things such as - ageing, childbirth, surgery or health condition.
It’s nothing to be ashamed of.
Staying active can actually be a part of the solution, strengthening those pelvic floor muscles, supporting your bladder, and giving you more control.
Adaptive Exercises for a Stronger You
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Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT): Often referred to as Kegel exercises, they're your secret weapon against incontinence. A simple squeeze and lift routine (think of holding your pee) can make a big difference. And the best part? You can do them anywhere - while watching TV, waiting in line, or sitting at your desk.
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Low-Impact Aerobics: such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming are excellent for maintaining your health without putting too much pressure on your pelvic floor. Swimming is particularly good for you, as the water supports your body, reducing stress on all muscles, including your pelvic floor.
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Yoga & Pilates: These low-impact exercises emphasise core strength, flexibility, and mindfulness, which can be particularly beneficial. Certain yoga poses and pilates exercises specifically target the pelvic floor muscles, enhancing their strength and endurance.
- Gentle Strength Training: Building strength doesn't mean you have to lift heavy weights. Light resistance training goes a long way in toning your body and supporting those muscles around your pelvis. Just remember, it's not about the weight but how you use it.
Sports and Activities for Those with Incontinence
Engaging in sports can still be a part of your life, it's all about choosing activities that feel good and make sense for you. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Plan Ahead:
ConfidenceClub offers a wide range of incontinence aids and accessories that are designed to make life easier and keep you comfortable while you're getting your sweat on. Find the right fit for you and go conquer the world. -
Stay Hydrated:
It might be tempting to reduce fluid intake to minimise leakage, but staying hydrated is crucial for healthy physical activity. Instead, monitor your fluid intake and avoid bladder irritants such as caffeine and alcohol before exercising. -
Choose Suitable Activities:
Start with low-impact sports that are less likely to trigger incontinence. Golf, bowling, and cycling are great options that allow you to control your movements and intensity.
Ready to get moving but need to plan ahead? Our Dailee range has you covered. From pads, guards, pants and slips, feel secure knowing that whatever you choose, all Dailee products are made from ultra-soft, fully breathable materials and are fitted with active odour control to keep you feeling fresh!
Adapting Your Fitness Routine
Your fitness journey is uniquely yours, and incontinence is just a small part. Start with what feels comfortable, sprinkle in some patience, and gradually add more activities as you feel more confident.
It's all about listening to your body and adjusting as you go. And don't forget, there's a whole community out there going through the same journey, ready to support and cheer you on.
By embracing adaptive exercises and being mindful of your body's signals, you can enjoy a wide range of physical activities without fear.
Remember, incontinence is a common issue and with the right strategies, it doesn't have to limit your active lifestyle.
Try Our Dailee Range
About the Author: Gabby Pamandanan
With over four years of experience creating engaging health and lifestyle articles and social media designs. Gabrielle is passionate about connecting audiences with meaningful content. Gabrielle aims to create a safe, inclusive and educational space for ConfidenceClub's community through each article she crafts.