Summer is the ultimate season of outdoor fun and adventure, but unexpected injuries can dampen the spirit. If you’ve recently suffered a leg injury and are stuck in a cast, on crutches, or using a motor scooter, you may be feeling left out of all the summer fun.
The good news is that there are still plenty of activities that you can enjoy even with your injury. Keep reading to discover some summer activities that you can still do while on the mend.
Attend Outdoor Music Festivals
Most outdoor music festivals offer wheelchair-accessible paths and seating areas for those with mobility issues. Do some research to find festivals that cater to those with injuries, and enjoy the music and atmosphere with your friends. Plan ahead to make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks that you can carry in a backpack or tote bag.
Make sure to call ahead and speak to a representative from the festival so that you know exactly what kind of access is available. They may be able to provide an accessible seating area for you or other special arrangements.
Head to the Beach or Pool
If your cast is waterproof, take advantage of the chance to cool off and relax at the beach or pool. Sunbathing, reading, and people-watching are some of the best summertime activities, and they can all be done with a little creativity.
If you’re unable to swim, try floating on an inflatable pool float or lounger, or use a beach chair that reclines back, so you can soak up the sun while keeping your cast dry.
Go Camping or Glamping
Camping is a wonderful way to unwind and take in the beauty of nature when the weather is nice. Although tent camping may not be possible when you’re in a cast, there are other options to consider. Some campsites offer cabins and glamping tents that are wheelchair accessible, with easy access to hiking trails, campfires, and outdoor facilities.
Camping doesn’t have to involve a lot of walking either. If you can’t walk, there are plenty of other activities to do at the campsite such as fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and bird watching. Be sure to bring along your camera so you can capture beautiful images of nature and animals in their natural habitat. You could also gather around the campfire for some roasting of marshmallows and storytelling with your friends. Enjoy the peace and tranquility that comes with camping in nature, no matter how you get there!
Explore Museums and Galleries
If you’re looking for activities that are a bit more low-key, museums and galleries can be a perfect choice. Many of them offer scooter- and wheelchair-friendly access, including scooters like the Pride Mobility Go Go Sport 3 Wheel Scooter, so you can take your time to peruse the exhibits at your own pace. You can also explore outdoor sculpture gardens or attend indoor music or theater performances.
Getting to a museum or gallery with a cast or motor scooter can be tricky. Start by researching the best way to get there, as some venues may not have adequate handicap access. Public transit and ride-sharing services are usually a good option for getting around quickly and easily with minimal effort.
When you arrive at the venue, ask the staff about any special accommodations that are available, such as elevators or ramps that can make it easier to get around. If you need additional assistance, many places offer wheelchair-friendly tours and guides that can provide support if needed.
Try a New Hobby or Skill
With extra time on your hands while injured, you can use this as an opportunity to try out a new hobby or skill. You can pick an activity that can be done sitting down or that is not too strenuous. For example, you can start working on a craft project, learning to speak a new language, or taking up painting or drawing. There are also a variety of online classes you can take to learn a new skill or brush up on an old one.
Learning a new skill while immobilized is an excellent way to challenge yourself and keep your mind active. There are many activities that you can do from the comfort of your home, such as yoga or Pilates, which can help maintain strength and mobility in your legs. You may also want to explore options for online classes where you can learn anything from photography to coding.
Other possibilities include honing your cooking skills, learning to play an instrument, and exploring a new book series. With a bit of creativity and hard work, you can gain valuable knowledge while healing from your injury.
Go Stargazing
For a unique summer activity that puts your injury woes in the rearview mirror, go stargazing! Nothing beats spending an evening outside looking at the stars and discovering constellations. This is especially enjoyable for those who are on crutches or in wheelchairs, as you can stay in one spot and take it all in without tiring yourself out.
Bring a blanket or cushion to get comfortable on the ground, and bring a pair of binoculars for an up-close view of the night sky. Stargazing can be a peaceful and calming way to take in nature while enjoying the summer evening breeze with friends and family. It’s also a great opportunity to appreciate the beauty of our universe.
Don’t let your broken leg keep you from enjoying summer. There are a plethora of activities you can still do, even while being immobilized. This is a great time to learn something new, explore your artistic side, or take advantage of local events—all while enjoying the beauty of the season. With a little bit of creativity and planning, you can make the most of your summer, no matter what your physical limitations may be.