Seated Exercise “pays off”, says Movement Therapist

Bruce Thomson, massage therapist and Pilates instructor of Invercargill, is enthusiastic about the benefits of seated exercise and gentle, smooth movement with body alignment.

Bruce sees many people trying to treat joint and other problems with strenuous exercise or work-outs at the gym.  They often spend lots of time and money on elaborate equipment but it may well be that a gentle, natural action is what is really needed. 

“An exercise does not have to look spectacular to achieve spectacular results. Sometimes the simplest of equipment is all that is required to move the muscles and joints in an action which realigns and rehabilitates – anything that tricks the body into doing the right thing,” he says.

“This was dramatically brought to my attention when a client phoned me to say, ‘Bruce, I’ve fixed my knee’.  Three years earlier she had been left with a stiff joint after surgery and I had tried massage and exercise treatments with limited success.”

“When I asked what she had done, she showed me a cushion-like exerciser with some air in it which she used frequently while sitting doing other things.  Basically it works on the same principle as Tai Chi with slow, smooth movements.  To my surprise she had regained full range of movement in her knee. The persistent, gentle exercise kept her body in alignment while she restored that mobility.”

Mobility is king

When mobility is restored, people can remain independent for longer and enjoy a better quality of life. We all know we should exercise but it often sounds too difficult or too tiring and we make excuses. The idea of exercising in the comfort of our own living room becomes even more appealing as winter approaches.

“I am an athlete, a sprinter”, says Bruce. “Since seeing my client’s success, I plan to use this same seated exercise to aid in muscle recovery after a hard workout.”

Aircycle

Many people are now aware of the importance of taking some responsibility for their own health and wellbeing. That is to be commended and there are many aids available to help us. “The inflatable exerciser my client used (called an Aircycle) is one of them.”

The Aircycle is unique in that it folds to carry in a pocket or purse so it can be used anywhere, anytime – in front of TV, in the office under a desk or in the car or plane while travelling.  It is a simple way to improve circulation, so easy to use and is not    expensive.                                                                                                                                                     
It is an effective arthritis treatment and joint pain relief, is great for reducing swollen ankles and for diabetic foot care, foot numbness, stroke rehabilitation, cramps and restless legs. It can also be placed on the knee and used to exercise fingers, wrists and shoulders too.

Made originally by a worried wife to help her husband manage his severe arthritis, the Aircycle is now being recommended by arthritis educators, diabetes clinics, podiatrists and physiotherapists. It is registered with Medsafe and carries a 12 month guarantee.
Purchase in the GrownUps Store Now.