Cardio Without Standing
VO2 max matters for everyone
VO2 max is the strongest predictor of longevity regardless of mobility status. Wheelchair users can build exceptional cardiovascular fitness through upper-body training.
Adaptive cardio options
Tap each to learn how it builds cardiovascular fitness.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
The adaptation advantage
Research shows wheelchair athletes often develop superior upper-body cardiovascular efficiency. Your heart and lungs don't care which muscles drive them — adaptation is powerful.
Build a 4-week cardio base
A typical progression for someone starting from sedentary.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
Heart-rate zones for upper-body work
Wheelchair-cardio HR runs 10-15 bpm lower than running for the same effort. Calibrate accordingly.
This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.
Key Takeaway
Aim for 150+ minutes/week of upper-body cardio (hand cycling, arm ergometer). This achieves the same longevity benefits as running or cycling for able-bodied people.