Exercise Recommendations and Considerations for Persons With Spinal Cord Injury.

Increasing activity and exercise is essential for health and quality of life for people living with spinal cord injury (SCI). Obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes are 2 to 4 times higher for people with SCI compared to the general population. This is due, in part, to low levels of activity, limited access and opportunities to participate in exercise, as well as changes in muscle and heart function that are common after injury. Exercise is necessary to improve fitness and reduce long-term health complications after SCI. Below are exercise recommendations for improving cardiovascular health, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility for people with SCI.