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There are several different resources available to help you with your recovery. The exercise resources include online videos, apps, face to face groups or individual sessions.
These are outlined below. We have also added some general exercise sheets that you may find useful.
Different Strokes provide a range of online videos set at 5 different levels of ability ranging from no active movement (carer assisted) to fully independent.
Each level has a programme of 12 sessions which focus on varying key elements, such as:
Visit Different Stroke's website for their online exercise classes.
They have jointly produced stroke-specific online exercise videos with 3 different levels:
They have different videos for strengthening different parts of your body, stretching, coordination and relaxation.
Visit the Stroke Association's website for their stroke-specific exercise video programme.
Visit the Walton Stroke Group website, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01932 247549.
Visit the Woking Strokeability website, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01483 323575.
If your occupational therapist or physiotherapist has advised that you need support when you are completing exercises, try some of the Assisted Exercises. Ensure you seek help of a family member or carer. Your helper will need to adjust the level of support they give you depending on how much you can do.
If you can complete exercises without support, please review the Independant Exercises.
Repeat each of the exercises until your muscles feel tired or your technique worsens. If you are concerned your technique is not correct, do not continue with the exercise and consult your physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
GRASP is an arm and hand exercise program for people with stroke. It can be undertaken by the patient on their own. It is highly recommended that it is completed with assistance from caregivers or family members. They advise a minimal movement criterion of some wrist and shoulder movement.
They offer the program, manual and GRASP books free of charge. Visit the GRASP website for more information.
If your physiotherapist has advised you are safe to do exercises in lying or sitting independently, you can try some of the exercises for ‘independent’ exercise. It’s good to be aware that a stroke affects everyone differently and you may find some of these exercises too challenging or you may not be able to move your leg as shown in the picture. If this is the case, you can either focus on the exercises you can complete or try activating your muscles statically.
If you are unable to complete the exercises independently, have a look at the ‘Assisted Exercises’. Repeat each until your muscles feel tired or your technique worsens. If you are concerned your technique is not correct, do not continue with the exercise and consult your physiotherapist.
Your GP, physiotherapist or occupational therapist can refer you on your local ‘Exercise or Gym referral schemes’. Following this, you will have an assessment with a physical activity specialist to determine what programme of physical activity fits your specific needs. After this assessment you will have an opportunity to engage with a physical activity programme, at a discounted rate.
There are several charities and groups that support you to engage with sport and physical activity. There are also often exercise and social groups run at your local day centre. You can learn more about the day centres in your area by contacting your local council or searching on the Connect to Support Surrey website.
Sport in Mind uses sport and physical activity to improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems, from those who have severe difficulties to those who do not have a formal diagnosis.
They hold weekly drop-in sessions at various locations in Surrey.
Sessions vary from Tai Chi, and yoga to badminton, table tennis and football.
Visit the Sport in Mind website for more information and their current timetables.
The Disabled Golf Association is a charity supporting people with disabilities to access golf events and improve their wellbeing.Events take place around the country from March to October at various golf courses. People can go along informally or enter the competition if you have an official handicap.
They also offer taster sessions for people who wish to learn how to play golf.
Visit the Disabled Gold Association website for more information.
Wheels for All offers all-ability cycling using its fleet of adapted bikes: trikes, quads, recumbent, side by side and standard 2 wheelers.
Sessions are based at the athletics track at Woking Sportsbox.
Visit the Woking Wheels for All website for further details.
There are also several apps that can help guide you through exercise videos and progressions. Some are available at a cost and others are free of charge.