People
Becoming Strong
Arnad might be what one would call a “gym rat.”
“I basically live at the gym,” he says, adding that he’s been going faithfully for 25 years.
Arnad receives support through Communitas Supportive Care Society’s Community Inclusion (CI) services. His CI worker, John, says that he is inspired by Arnad’s determination and drive. The two visit the gym together where Arnad uses an arm bike (also called an ergonometer) to build his upper body strength. John says he’s seen Arnad’s strength and endurance increase.
“Since going to the gym with Arnad, I’ve seen his kilometers and his duration improve by leaps and bounds,” John says. “He’ll go for 60 minutes at 43 km/hr – I’m lucky if I can do ten! Arnad is truly amazing.”
Arnad’s persistence pays off in his every day life. Strengthening his arms and upper body makes it easier for him to get in and out of his van and to power his wheelchair for longer periods of time.
The arm bike also helps Arnad work on his coordination. John explains that at first, Arnad would pedal in one direction only, now he pedals in both directions.
“At first, this was really hard but Arnad stuck with it,” John says. “Now he’ll do 15 minutes in one direction and then 15 in the other and keep rotating. His coordination is really good.”
Arnad’s foray into fitness began with The Man in Motion: Rick Hansen.
“Rick Hansen has been an inspiration to me for 25 years,” Arnad says, proudly.
Arnad enjoys other activities as well. He goes swimming at the pool, skiing at Mt. Washington, and wheeling around his neighbourhood. He takes courses at the local college, where he recently took a course on health and learning how to eat a healthier diet.
To anyone who has thought about going to the gym but is feeling discouraged, Arnad invites them to join him at the gym.
“Just do it and work out hard,” he says. “Come to the gym and see me and we’ll work out together.”
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