Samantha Renke reflects on the start of a new journey towards a healthier relationship with her body
I never thought in a million years I’d be covering this topic: fitness. Yes, I’d like to share a little about my recent fitness journey. Some may say I’ve gone to the dark side, but hear me out. Fitness still excludes Disabled people – fact. Add being a woman on top of that and it can feel like a very alien space.
There was a time I’d judge and scoff at gym goers. I’d label them as self obsessed. I’d assume they must have low self-esteem; consumed with perfection, unrealistic body types and external validation. Yes, I was the queen of judging but, deep down, I was rather jealous. I was envious of their privilege.
ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL
I’ve never felt like the fitness realm was inclusive or welcoming for me as a wheelchair user – someone with limited mobility, low bone density and wonky bones that don’t always go in the direction they should.
Most gyms aren’t physically accessible. Online workouts seemed to go super fast and were never bespoke enough for my Disabled body. Even wellness apps exclude my body height and size, deeming me to be too small or underweight to even sign up.
Everything seemed too binary and through the enabled gaze. Recently however, I’ve changed my approach. Instead of seeing all the barriers, I’ve made a commitment to myself to simply make it work.
GOALS AND GAINS
I’d be lying if I said the prospect of a sexy bikini body wasn’t a big driving force. But looking good and shedding a few pounds is not my end goal.
Last year I had an operation to remove a displaced metal rod in my leg. The pain and immobility for many years meant I was extremely inactive. I put on weight which restricted my mobility and thus independence. I felt stiff, sore and uncomfortable in my skin.
I simply wanted a healthier relationship and to reconnect with my beautiful body.
It’s been a month of early morning workouts, more water and wholefoods, a protein-rich diet and experimenting with different styles including cardio, yoga and strength.
I’ve sought advice from Disabled friends and taken my time because I’m not training for a marathon. This is a life commitment I owe to myself.
I urge you to do what I did and speak to your specialist, physio or OT before embarking on a fitness journey or diet change. Make sure when you seek this advice you feel heard and validated. A good supporter should respect your decisions and work with you, not against you.
I’m loving free seated workouts on YouTube. On Instagram, check out @CarolineJordanFitness, @KymNonStop and @ZukFitness – if you can’t do a whole session, change movements to suit you. I’ve even had my very first seated yoga class courtesy of @adaptiveyogalive.
Fitness should be fun, so let’s make it so.