The term cerebral palsy (CP) refers to a group of non-progressive neurological disorders that appear in infancy or early childhood and permanently affect body movement, muscle coordination, and balance. The most common symptoms are involuntary muscle movement, limp or stiff limbs, and exaggerated reflexes. Ability levels and severity of the condition vary from patient to patient.  While one individual with CP might not require special assistance, someone with severe CP might be unable to walk and need extensive, lifelong care.

 While there is not as much research on exercise for adults with CP, there are extensive studies published on the benefits of exercise and recreational activities for children with CP in not only improving and maintaining physical health, but also in enhancing psychological and emotional well-being.  

 

 The Outrider is an ideal option for individuals with CP both in adolescence and into adulthood. With its three-wheeled recumbent platform, it corrects for any balance issues associated with CP and the various configurations allows people with CP to choose which option is best suited for their physical wants and needs.

 

Here are a few of the benefits of the Outrider for riders with CP: 

• Research has shown that a lack of optimal physical activity for people with CP (particularly in adolescence) can lead to secondary physical conditions such as chronic pain, fatigue and osteoporosis. Decreased levels of activity is often a result of a lack of access to specialized adaptive equipment. The Outrider fills this gap for those who would like to go on long cycling rides and/or exploratory off-road adventures. 
• Because all configurations have an electric assist and the option for foot pedals or handcycle, patrons can get exercise while also keeping pace with their able-bodied comrades while going on longer rides and further distances than they would be able to otherwise.  
• CP patients with more severe cases still have the opportunity to participate in group outings/rides by using the fully electric ATV Horizon either with standard vertical handlebars and controls or with adaptive tri-pin controls.
• In addition to physical well-being, participation in adaptive sports and other group activities is shown to improve the Quality of Life (QOL) and self-confidence for individuals with CP. The Outrider's modular and adaptive platform allows people with CP the tools and confidence to join community cycling clubs and/or participate in group rides with friends and family. 

 

Potential Outrider Customer Case Study: 

J.A., WA: Foot Pedal Horizon with Standard Vertical Handlebars and Controls 

• She has a recumbent trike to help with her balance issues that she got in order to go on bike rides with her husband.
• Even with her current recumbent bike, she has a hard time keeping up with him and having enough stamina to participate on longer rides. 
• Her attraction to the Horizon is the ability to engage the throttle when she wants/needs a little extra juice to maintain pace with her husband.
• She would still like to get exercise and wants to be able to control when and how much electric assist she uses, which makes the Outrider set up the ideal machine to meet her needs.

 

If you would like to learn more about Cerebral Palsy (CP) and the studies done on the benefits of exercise, please visit the links below: 

• Rec Therapy for patients with CP
• Health and Fitness for Adults with CP
• Influence of adapted sport on quality of life: Perceptions of athletes with cerebral palsy
• Promotion of Physical Fitness and Prevention of Secondary Conditions for Children With Cerebral Palsy: Section on Pediatrics Research Summit Proceedings
• Participation and enjoyment of leisure activities in school-aged children with cerebral palsy