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According to Conditioning With Physical Disabilities, Kevin F. Lockette and Ann M. Keyes, 1994, The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago:
Physical disability need not, and indeed should not, mean physical inactivity. A person with a disability may be faced with many challenges that reduce opportunities to participate in and benefit from well-balanced fitness programs and specific training. Challenges may include physical impairments, architectural barriers, transportation, financial and/or overcoming loss of self-esteem.
A physical disability often limits the capacity for work and may restrict a person from certain activities. However, rarely should a physical disability rule out exercise entirely. To the contrary, most people with disabilities benefit from regular and appropriate physical activity, with results including these:
- Improved stamina and function for activities involved in daily living
- Enhanced self-esteem and confidence through the perception of improved body appearance, control, and function
- Minimized muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, pressure sores, weight gain, and other adverse conditions
- Higher levels of functioning for those with progressive disorders like multiple sclerosis
- Fewer medical complications, including pressure sores and hospitalizations for people who use wheelchairs
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