Student Lily is an extremely sociable woman in her forties who enjoys all kinds of involvement in day-to-day life. However, Lily (not her real name) was not physically active in a significant way and needed to find a safe and appropriate type of exercise that would lead to weight loss.
Lily uses a wheelchair and has mobility in her arms. After Parity for Disability introduced ‘Motomed’ accessible stationary bikes to each day service, a physiotherapist assessed Lily and devised a programme enabling her to work out regularly on the bike, using her arms to power the hand pedals. Lily took to the new equipment with enthusiasm.
After six months Lily had lost over 20 pounds and is continuing to regain a healthy weight. She has also gained more strength in her arms and is able to lift herself off a chair. Her blood pressure is back within normal limits.
Lily sticks to her Motomed routine at Parity. She can clearly see the benefits and will happily spend 20 minutes on the equipment before going on a day out. Rather than continually watching what she eats, Lily now enjoys treats from time to time, like a glass of wine or a piece of cake. Psychologically, too, she’s in a far better place.
Lily has even taken part in a sponsored challenge using the bike. She teamed up with other students and staff to cover the virtual distance between Lands End and John O’Groats in 3 months, helping raise over £500 for Parity.
Continuing on the theme of the sponsored challenge, Lily has since managed to cover the virtual distance between Land’s End and John O’Groats by herself. She’s determined to stick to her Motomed programme and keep improving her fitness.