NCPAD HomePage

"Teens on the Move" is an exciting new exercise video for teens with spina bifida. Produced through a collaborative effort by NCPAD, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), and the Spina Bifida Association of America(SBAA), this video is filmed in high definition (HD).

This complete exercise program features teens with spina bifida, and includes the following sections:
  • 18 minutes of aerobic exercise
  • 16 minutes of flexibility
  • 26 minutes of strength training, including balance and core exercises
  • Warm-up and cool-down exercises
  • Closed captioning for individuals with hearing impairments

NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of Teens on the Move exercise video
This video is not intended to replace physical therapy or exercises prescribed by your doctor, but to assist in incorporating physical activity into your daily life.

NCPAD recommends that you talk with your doctor BEFORE you start any new exercise program, recreational activity, or sport.

This video is available in both DVD and VHS formats.

Funding for this video is provided by Grant/ Cooperative Agreement number U59/CCU522742-02 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additional funding was provided by the SBA.

To preview the Teens on the Move video, please refer to the following sections.


NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of a participant of the Teens on the Move video.
This segment on exercising safely is led by an individual with spina bifida who has been involved in sports and recreation. She provides some perspective on:
  • the importance of exercise for youth with SB;
  • safety guidelines before beginning an exercise program; and
  • considerations such as latex allergies, hydration, skin checks, and body temperature regulation.
These safety reminders will be "popping up" throughout the different exercise sections, to guide participants as they are exercising.

NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of a teenager with spina bifida checking her pulse.

Set at the Southwest Youth Collaborative's Hip-Hop University in Chicago, this is a fun and dynamic group aerobic exercise program. It features four teens with spina bifida of varying abilities performing a mix of dance and kickboxing moves.

NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing aerobic exercise.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing boxing moves.
Vibrant voiceover cuing is provided.

Sections included are:
  • aerobic warm-up
  • aerobic workout
  • aerobic cooldown
NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing pressure lifts.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing cooldown exercises.


NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing strengthening exercises

Important exercise terminology (reps, sets, determining the right weight) are explained in this section. Correct body positioning throughout the available range of motion, correct breathing, and posture are demonstrated. Safety considerations and options are shown, such as the use of latex-free equipment, a spotter when necessary, using safety straps, and locking the chair while exercising.

NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing a seated row exercise with a Thera-Band.
Image of a young girl with spina bifida performing a seated exercise using a body bar.

Strengthening, balance, and core exercises are performed using Thera-Bands and free weights. Prior to each exercise demonstration, graphics are provided to show participants what specific muscle groups are involved in each particular exercise. Alternative exercise options are provided for varying abilities. Most of the exercises are performed in a seated position, though some core exercises are performed on the floor. When necessary, safe transfers to a stable chair or to the floor from the wheelchair are demonstrated.

With the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan as a backdrop, the flexibility exercises help the body cool down after a vigorous aerobic or strength training session. Upper body, back, and lower body stretches are demonstrated. Alternative exercise options are provided for varying abilities.

NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth with spina bifida performing wrist flexion and extension stretch.
Image of a young girl with spina bifida performing an assisted calf stretch.


NOTE: RealPlayer is required to view each videoclip.
Image of youth participants of the Teens on the Move video.

If you are interested in ordering the Teens on the Move: An Exercise Video for Teens with Spina Bifida, visit the NCPAD Products Web Shop.



This fact sheet was last updated on 10-16-2006.

Add a Fact Sheet Section

Update this Fact Sheet
(edit sheet name, edit organizations, etc.)
Toggle accessibility on/offAccesskeys
(Deactivated)
Activate Accesskeys