Adults should exercise at least 75 minutes a week at a vigorous intensity or 150 minutes at a moderate intensity, according to health guidelines. It doesn’t really matter what you do as long as you get moving.
What if you are unable to be active because of an injury, illness, or disability? In these cases, adaptive sports could be a lifesaver.
What is adaptive sport?
Adaptive sports can be competitive or recreational activities or sports for people who have disabilities or physical limitations. Adaptive sports are often parallel to traditional pursuits but modified to accommodate people’s physical abilities.
“Almost everyone will eventually experience some type of disability that prevents them from exercising regularly, whether it is mild arthritis, the need for a knee or hip implant, limited vision or a more serious physical disability,” says Cheri Blauwet. She’s a former wheelchair racing champion who has won seven Paralympic Medals and twice won both the Boston and New York City Marathons. Today, thanks to advanced technology and supportive infrastructures, people can choose almost any sport or activity that considers their abilities and helps them remain active.
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Why is it important to be active?
Exercise is important for health. It can also have a negative impact on mood. According to Dr. Blauwet, people with disabilities face a greater risk of injury because it is difficult for them to stay active. “Adaptive Sports are a great way to keep active and maintain our health.”
This is supported by research. One study found that people who participate in adaptive sports or activities have better health, a higher quality of life, and a more social life.
What are the options available for adaptive sports near me?
The National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability and Challenged Athletes Foundation have websites that provide information on state and local adaptive sports programs and accessible sports activities. These programs can also help you find the mentors, coaches, and support system you need,” Dr. Blauwet says.
Your interests and ability to perform will ultimately determine what sport or activity is best for you. However, there are many options.
Consider new ideas and build on your strengths.
Dr. Blauwet explains how you can transition from adaptive activities to other strategies.
Consider your current exercise. “Almost all sports or activities can be adapted to accommodate people with disabilities. There is a high chance that you can continue your favorite activity,” says Dr. Blauwet.
As part of her ongoing treatment, former Arizona Representative Gabby Giffords, a cyclist who suffers from a brain injury following an assassination, rides a recumbent bicycle because of balance problems and paralysis of her right side. A recumbent bicycle is a three-wheeled bicycle that allows the rider to be in a seated position.
Similar modifications can be made to other sports and activities. Golf carts, for example, can be used to help you balance and swing the club while standing. Sled hockey is played on ice using sleds.
Concentrate on your strengths. Do not dwell on the things you cannot do. Instead, focus on the things you can. Running is no longer an alternative. What about power walking with walking poles as support? Can’t use your legs? Concentrate on upper-body activities such as swimming or kayaking. Low vision? You can use guides to walk, run, and cycle.
Join an adaptive team. Many sports for people with disabilities have team leagues that are organized with modified rules and formats. For example, wheelchair basketball, tennis, “beep’ baseball, kickball, and even wheelchair tennis. “These are great ways to raise awareness of your new endeavor and create a community among peers with similar disabilities,” Dr. Blauwet says. “Plus, a little competition provides extra motivation.”
Try a new sport or activity. Take advantage of your new functional status to try something new. Dr. Blauwet says, “Try something new and see if it’s for you.” Dr. Blauwet says that now is the perfect time to try waterskiing or windsurfing.
You may feel that your disability is magnified when you engage in adaptive sports or activities. Don’t be discouraged, says Dr. Blauwet. Staying active and investing in health can reduce any stigma that you may feel. “Adaptive sports are not a less-than-normal way of life, but rather a better way of living.”