People usually push their wheelchairs with both hands. But, what if you only have one hand free at the moment? In this video, Gary Karp offers some tips and demonstrates how to push the wheelchair with just one hand.
At 0:25, Gary wheels down the street, switching his cup of hot latte frequently between both hands. As one hand holds the cup, the other pushes the wheel. This technique of switching hands means that the wheelchair travels in a zigzag path.
“That’s ok, you don’t always have to move in a straight line.”
Grabbing stationary items on the street such as planters or parking meters can also boost your speed and help you travel straighter. Furthermore, Gary advises taking advantage of slanted sidewalks. By pushing against the slope, the wheelchair travels straighter, and you don’t have to switch your hands as often.
At 0:57, Gary teaches how to stop safely. The wheelchair makes a circle when you stop with one hand, so it’s best to pick an empty area to stop. “You pick your spot and you let yourself naturally spin around, which slows you down. And then you stop right where you want to be,” says Gary.
If you’re getting started with learning how to wheel one-handed, the best way to practice is to find an empty or less crowded street, and of course, without a hot drink in your hand. With Gary’s tips, you’re well on your way to wheeling proficiently with one hand!
Know of someone who always travels with items in his/her hands? Share this post with your friends to show them how they can wheel with one hand!