Tenerife Hospital's 'I Get in Shape' Empowers Disabled

To mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the San Juan de Dios Hospital of Tenerife is showcasing its "I Get in Shape" project. This initiative offers tailored physical exercise and personal training, making a real difference in helping people with disabilities become more independent and feel better.

María de la Rosa, director of the Socio-health and Solidarity Area, explains that the project started with a clear goal: to create a place where everyone can exercise in a safe and encouraging environment. "We wanted the people we care for to be able to make exercise part of their daily lives and enjoy being active, just like at any gym, but with programs designed for their specific abilities and needs," she says.

The program takes place Monday to Thursday and includes exercises using body weight, resistance bands, light weights, and yoga-inspired breathing techniques. These sessions are led by a qualified expert in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences (CAFYD). This professional, along with the team, creates and oversees personal routines, making sure each exercise is safe and right for the individual. De la Rosa highlights, "Their expert guidance and personal touch have been crucial in helping participants gain confidence and make progress."

Many participants who feel anxious or unsure about exercise have especially welcomed the breathing and relaxation techniques. The director adds, "Yoga has been vital for helping them focus, relax, and feel like they belong to the group."

Beyond the regular sessions, the program also includes therapeutic hiking trips that boost both physical and emotional health. These trips offer a chance for personal and group growth in nature, away from the hospital.

But it's not just about physical benefits. The program also helps participants become more independent and emotionally stronger. The team uses special tests to check movement and daily skills, and they've seen big improvements in how independent people are in their everyday lives.

For María de La Rosa, the most important thing about this project is how it creates a sense of belonging and confidence. "It's not just about exercising; it's about feeling like you belong. For many, sharing a routine, tackling small challenges, or simply enjoying time together as a group makes a huge difference."

The hospital's dedication to inclusion is also shown through its involvement in the European "Move On" project, which encourages physical activity for better health and integration.

The socio-health team works to help everyone, no matter their abilities, find their own way to be active. This could be through exercises they do at home, therapeutic hikes, or even joining sports teams.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, María de La Rosa restates the hospital's core belief: "Inclusion isn't just a nice idea; it's something we commit to every day. With the right support and accessible places, adapted exercise truly helps people change their lives, feel good, and become more independent."