Do you have neurological condition since you were born? If no, you may not know the point of using pelvis to pedal. Here is what we found.
When we say "push the pedal!!", most young people with CP push both R and L pedals. Therefore, pedalling does not start. We are pushing the front foot, when the other is not just pushing, or even pulling up. How can we make this achievable for people with neurological conditions. Thus, we would like you to try using pelvis movement. You may want to experiment with family member/carer first.
These below exercises are much better fun with 4 beat music.
Belly button trick
Have a seat on COGY, strap both feet onto pedal. One foot is in front, the other is rear. Let's start with right foot front, left foot rear.
From this position, try twisting the belly button to left. You are welcome to use your shoulder and arm, trying to look back from your left.
Then twist the belly button all the way to right.
and keep on. Left, Right, Left, Right, ...
Do you see your feet moving together with your upper body? The tip is, you have to twist your trunk until your pelvis moves.
Swing method
Have a seat on COGY, strap both feet onto pedal. Let's start with right foot front, left foot rear position.
Lean your body to left, as deep as you feel OK, being careful not to fall.
Then lean to right.
And keep on. Left, Right, Left, Right, ...
The pedal movement may be very small at first. However, it gets momentum after repeating the movement.
Bottom Cheek Bone method
Have a seat on COGY, strap both feet onto pedal. Let's start with right foot front, left foot rear position.
Lift your Left side of the bottom up.
Then lift the Right side instead. Left side bottom is now down onto the seat.
And keep on. Left, Right, Left, Right, ...
It may be difficult to completely lift the bottom up from the seat. In that case, try feeling the end of pelvis on R and L each (ischium).
All these above are the trick to encourage the movement including pelvis.
The best merit of these methods is, reducing the impact on hip joints.