Exercises for Children with Neurological Conditions: Lower Limb Strengthening (Other Aerobic Exercises)

Safety precautions when exercising

Your Exercise Regime

Lower limb strengthening exercises (aerobics exercises)

Lower limb strengthening exercises such as hydrotherapy can help to maintain and improve functional strength in the core muscles and the lower limb joints.

Strengthening exercises are important to maintain and improve functional strength in the core muscles and the lower limb joints. It also assists with overall circulation and encourages functional mobility.

Safety precautions when exercising

Ensure that you had been taught the recommended exercises by a physiotherapist before carrying them out.
Ensure the child is near a supporting surface or an attentive adult during exercises especially balance activities.
Observe for signs of pain or discomfort – if pain occurs, stop and check in with your physiotherapist before continuing further.

Your Exercise Regime

Repeat exercises as recommended by your physiotherapist – check in with your therapist on the recommended number of sets per day

Ensure adequate rest and hydration between sets

Lower limb strengthening exercises (aerobics exercises)

Modified static cycling Modified static cycling with a harness on the trunk to encourage aerobic activity.
Hydrotherapy Hydrotherapy with a trained physiotherapist.
Ball games in sitting
Group activities such as soccer, basketball
Hopscotch