Why Exercise Is Essential For Living Well With Cerebral Palsy

Why Exercise Is Essential for Living Well with Cerebral Palsy

Originally published August 5, 2024 • Updated August 2026

By Jessica Grono

Sitting in a wheelchair with cerebral palsy might look easy, but it isn’t. Sitting for long periods can take a toll on the body. Muscles become tight, joints become stiff, and pain often increases. That’s why movement is so important.

Having a disability isn’t a reason to avoid exercise. In fact, it’s one of the biggest reasons to make exercise a priority. Everyone can find a way to move, no matter their ability level.

For me, exercise isn’t about losing weight or looking a certain way.

It’s about maintaining my independence.

Throughout my life, I have relied on others for many daily activities, including dressing, bathing, meals, and transfers. While I know I will always need assistance in some areas, I also know there are things I can do to remain as independent and pain-free as possible. Exercise is one of the most important.

Living with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy affects everyone differently.

My type of cerebral palsy is a combination of athetoid and spastic cerebral palsy. At any given moment, my muscles may become stiff, move involuntarily, or cooperate exactly the way I want them to. Some days my body feels more controlled than others, and that’s one of the biggest challenges—never knowing exactly how my muscles will respond.

Because my muscles are constantly moving, they become tired and sore. Without regular movement and strengthening exercises, I notice much more pain and stiffness.

Exercise Helps Me Stay Independent

Exercise has become one of my best tools for living well with cerebral palsy.

The stronger I become, the easier everyday activities are.

For example, when I transfer to the toilet, I rely on my arms and legs to help pull myself up. If I’ve neglected exercising, I immediately notice the difference. Transfers become harder, and I need more assistance than usual.

The same is true when someone helps me transfer into my wheelchair. The stronger I am, the more I can help with the transfer, making it safer and easier for both of us.

Every bit of strength I gain helps me maintain a little more independence.

Finding Motivation

Like most people, I don’t always feel motivated to exercise.

There are days when I’m tired after teaching, busy with family, or simply don’t feel like working out. Motivation comes and goes.

What keeps me going isn’t motivation—it’s purpose.

I remind myself why I exercise.

I don’t work out to have the perfect body.

I exercise so I can continue teaching, writing, traveling, spending time with my family, and doing as much as possible on my own.

When I focus on that purpose, it’s much easier to stay consistent.

My Results

The benefits of regular exercise have been remarkable.

I have less joint pain, better endurance, improved strength, and greater confidence during everyday activities. I recover more quickly from busy days, and I feel stronger physically and mentally.

Exercise hasn’t cured my cerebral palsy.

It has simply helped me live better with it.

Whether you have cerebral palsy, another disability, or no disability at all, movement matters. Your exercise routine doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Stretching, resistance bands, swimming, walking, adaptive fitness, or simply moving more throughout the day can all make a difference.

Don’t compare yourself to others.

Celebrate what your body can do today, and keep building from there.

Every workout is an investment in your future independence.

What helps you stay active? I’d love to hear your favorite ways to exercise in the comments.