A Fitness Routine for Busy People with Scoliosis

I like to stay in shape, but sometimes that can be difficult handing everything that I need to do, what my mother needs, and what my sister needs. Still, when I have the time, I have a certain set of things that I try to do on a daily basis to keep in shape.

This can be difficult with a sister that has Asperger's and a mother with Asperger's or a neurological degeneration that is like Asperger's. It is also difficult for me to stay in shape because of my scoliosis. I had to wear a three pound, three centimeter thick nylon brace for three years while I was in school. At the time, it was the "newest technique" they had for treating scoliosis.

It kept my spine from becoming too curved, but my back always gets sore and it is difficult for me to walk, even for a mile. I have done it, but it is not easy for me.

These exercises have been great. Each of these helps me to stay fit without having to do the general type of exercises people expect like running and walking.

Abs

Keeping my abs and/or my stomach toned is one of those things that is important. Thankfully this can be done in bed just as well as in a setting for exercise. I try to do at least 10 crunches each day. I like to be able to do 50 or more over the course of a day, but that usually isn't possible.

Legs, Thighs and Butt

The exercise that I like to do to tone my legs, thighs, and butt are Pilates push-ups. They are harder to do now that I have a sore left knee, but I still try to do them when I can. They are like normal push-ups except for the fact that one leg is lifted straight off the ground behind while doing them. The leg lifted can be switched between each push-up or after a rep of push-ups with one leg being held-up, another rep of push-ups with the other leg being held up can be done. I like to do at least five push-ups with each leg up when I can find the time to exercise.

Arms

The Pilates push-ups also tone the arms. However, I also have some small five pound weights that I can use for lifting to be able to help tone my arms. I try to lift the weight at least ten times with each arm.

Aerobics

When it is not so hot outside in Louisiana, I have an adult tricycle that I like to ride around the block at least once a week. I'd ride a bicycle, but I was never able to get the hang of balancing on a bicycle.

However, I have an old Health Rider that I bought at a Goodwill store that I like to ride to help keep fit, too. It reminds me of the bouncy animals that children ride in the parks, which I loved to ride when I was young. This way I can experience the fun sensation while I exercise.

Mental Health

Many people forget that mental health is an important part of a "work out," too. Once somebody gets to know me, they know that I love doing things like crosswords and trivia. Those types of things are important to keep mentally active. However, I also meditate because it is important to be able to relax. I try to meditate at least once a day. I learned a great way to meditate from a stage combat class that I took in college and I still use that technique today.