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Running

DEAF, BLIND, DEAFBLIND

BLIND ADAPTATIONS

A client who is blind can run with a sighted guide. One way of running with the guide requires the runner who is blind to hold the wrist of their guide. This is generally the preferred method when using this technique, but the guide can hold on to the wrist of the runner who is blind, if that is what they are comfortable with.

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  • The pair can also use a tether. This is a rope that is between 18 and 24 inches long. It doesn’t have to be a particular material. It just has to be flexible, and thin. A shoe lace would even work. The runners can wrap the ends of the rope around their wrists or fingers.

  • The pair could also use a baton. This usually isn’t a preferred method, as it doesn’t allow for free movement for either of the runners, but you may have a client who wants to use this method.

  • Make sure the path in front of the runner is flat and clear.

  • If the runner is only running for a short distance, they can run towards a sound. (Ex: a speaker playing music, or a person making a sound such as clapping or talking.)

  • If the runner is running in a group, they may feel comfortable with being at the end of the line, not apart from the group, but not right in the middle.

INTELLECTUAL & NEUROLOGICAL

EPILEPSY ADAPTATIONS

Exercise Partners and Breaks

  • when working with individuals with a variety of abilities, it is important to provide workout partners as not only a source of encouragement but also for the person's safety.

  • They can look for sign of fatigue, dizziness, or anxiety throughout the exercise session.

  • Allowing for adequate water breaks is another way to check to see how they are feeling, and which intensity level is most appropriate.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

ADAPTATIONS

Often with Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, secondary conditions may present themselves with the disease progression such as diabetes or cardiovascular conditions. Running is a great way to maintain overall health even with a chronic disease. Studies have found that aerobic exercise such as running can actually help keep MS symptoms such as fatigue at bay. Here some things to consider when working with an individual with MS:

  • MS fatigue can be demanding for an individual. Taking frequent breaks to sit and rest or even simply slowing the pace to a walk can help the individual take control of the fatigue.

  • Heat is a serious trigger for symptom flare ups. Being aware of increasing body temperature during any type of exercise is important for an individual with MS. Avoid running at peak temperature times outdoors, have a fan around or ice to chew on, and take frequent breaks when needed.

  • Warm up before and stretch after the run. Warming up givings the individual time to allow their stiffer muscles to prepare for exercise. Stretching is incredibly beneficial for someone with MS. Be sure to stretch the legs to avoid spasticity.

  • Some individuals with MS experience foot drop due to weakness in the ankle. This may cause them to stumble or even fall as their feet may drag on the ground. Being aware of this while running and doing exercises to help prevent foot drop is important. Exercises to strengthen the ankles or various assistive devices such as a functional electrical stimulation device can help.

  • Most importantly, go at the pace the individual feels appropriate. Running, jogging, or even walking can all be easily adapted to the individual by simply going at their desired pace.

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

ADAPTATIONS

Running is a great exercise able to be completed just about anywhere such as a track, treadmill, trails, or just outside. From sprinting and short mileage to jogging and long distance, running can be adapted in many ways. Although difficulty running can be a sign of muscular dystrophy, running can still be done as a form of exercise.

  • During running, individuals should be able to hold a conversation. This is how a good pace can be determined.

  • Avoid running in extreme temperatures such as freezing temperatures or the high heat of summers. Running should be done at comfortable pace in a comfortable environment.

  • Stretching is important for all levels of runners. Stretching is also important for individuals with muscular dystrophy. Thus, it is very important for runners with muscular dystrophy to properly warm up and cool down by stretching.

  • A racing wheelchair can be utilized if the upper body is stronger and/or an individual wants to train arms over the legs. Other wheelchairs can also be used such as recumbent cycles (close to ground and can be foot or hand) but these are generally categorized under cycling. For more information on recumbent cycles, please see “Cycling.”

  • Certain equipment can make running and walking easier. Some options are leg braces, walking stick, and walkers.

AUTISM

VESTIBULAR ADAPTATIONS

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  •  Increase and maintain balance/stability while running

  • Have client run alongside walls or bars so that he or she may grab a hold if losing balance

PROPRIOCEPTION ADAPTATIONS

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