While the types of equipment and accessories used in an exercise setting and a rehab setting remain the same, their function and rationale for use are very different. Fitness accessories used for rehab programming needs to take into consideration factors like stability versus instability, type of grip used, exercise progression/regression and many other dynamics.
It’s not always possible to invest in separate accessories for fitness versus rehab, but it is easy to find items that offer a dual-functionality. We round up our top ten rehab accessories that aid in safe, fast and efficient recovery:
- Fitness Circle® Lite
Its lightweight construction makes it ideal for beginners or Rehab clients and the inner and outer foam grips provide extra comfort
- Flex-Band® Exerciser
These 6.5 foot bands add upper and lower body resistance to exercises. Ensure that your client keeps the wrist and finger joints as neutral as possible and avoids wrapping the band around their hands or bending the wrists. Alternatively, for a more comfortable grip, add on the handle accessory
- Foam Roller™ Soft Density
The Soft Density Foam Roller provides the benefits of foam rolling with a gentler touch that enables your clients to apply more or less pressure on the targeted area as needed
- Toning Ball™
These are a great option for clients who require extra work through the hand and forearm. With their soft, flexible vinyl coverings, they easily conform to the shape of the hands and work the intrinsic hand muscles during the exercise, a must when looking to improve grip strength
- Stability Ball™
The Stability Ball challenges stability and balance and is effective in rehabilitation of the back as it strengthens and develops the core muscles that help to stabilize the spine
- Mini Stability Ball™
Helps improve posture with a major focus on core stability and back strength, and mobility
- Gripper Mats
For added security and comfort, these non-slip rubber mats are handy to increase traction and prevent slipping or sliding on the Reformer, Cadillac, Stability Chair™ and Ladder Barrel
- Balance & Therapy Domes
Popular for therapy and rehabilitation of the foot, ankle, lower leg, wrist, hand and forearm, Balance Domes are great for joint mobilization, arthritis, motor skill development and balance training
- Foam Cushions
Available in a variety of thicknesses, each foam cushion is designed to aid in increasing exercise options, allowing for proper alignment and biomechanics
- Stability Cushions
Improve stability, strength and balance while performing exercises in standing, sitting, kneeling, supine and prone positions
What are some of your go-to rehab accessories? If we’ve left anything off of the list that you think should be there, let us know in the comments section below!