If you have a prosthetic leg, you may think that you have limited options to train your strength. However, there are many exercises that you can still perform, which is significantly empowering. Before you begin, consult with your physical therapist or doctor to ensure that you are complying with their guidelines. After this, consider the exercises below to begin your strength training regimen.

How Can You Increase Strength After Getting a Prosthetic Leg?

1. Half Squat

Squatting partially is an excellent way to engage your thighs and improve your ability to sit down and stand up. To perform this move safely, you’ll need a heavy-duty piece of furniture, such as the edge of a chair or a countertop. Keep your weight even on both legs, and squat slowly, imagining that you’re lowering yourself onto a stool. Repeat this 10 times, and then take a break.

2. Bridges

Bridges exercise many muscles, including your hamstrings and gluteus. When on your back, keep a roller or a soft cushion underneath your prosthetic leg. Bend the unaffected limb and place this foot close to your bottom. Then, apply pressure to this foot and allow it to provide support as you raise your torso slowly. Keep your head and shoulders in place to prevent strain. Then, squeeze your gluteal muscles and hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds.

3. Upper Body

Strengthening your upper body will provide you with extra support that is necessary when performing daily activities. One of the best ways to build strength in this area is to sit down and use dumbbells to perform bicep curls. You can slowly increase the weight as you build strength, providing an excellent workout.

Alternatively, you can lift yourself in and out of a chair using your upper body. Use the arms of a chair as supports and slowly lift your bottom up, hold the position, and then sit back down. This boosts your strength and helps you sit and stand with greater ease.

4. Kicking

This requires a partner, and is an excellent way to socialize and exercise. First you will need a soccer ball, and then you should stand in front of a wall and across from each other. Kick the ball to your partner and have them kick it back. When you receive the ball, switch to the other foot to kick it in response. This is an excellent strengthening exercise for balance, as well.

For high-quality prosthetic legs that are customized to meet your specific needs, turn to Cobb Prosthetics in St. Louis, MO. This family-run company uses state-of-the-art technology to produce custom prosthetics and orthotics. They even offer mobile services to come to your home for the prosthetic fitting. For more information about their services, visit the website. Call (314) 849-5462 to schedule an appointment.