Participating in leisure-time physical activities (LTPA) contributes to the well-being of people with disabilities
Participating in leisure-time physical activities (LTPA) can boost the well-being of people with disabilities. Unfortunately, they often participate in these activities less than others, especially during winter due to environmental barriers and limited programs. Taking part in adaptive snowsports like skiing or snowboarding can help people with disabilities stay active in the winter. We aimed…
Disability sport post COVID-19
COVID-19, a major epidemic, has profoundly affected people’s lives globally. A recent study explores its impact on disability sport, highlighting 4 key discussions: media coverage during lockdown, promotion of sporting opportunities, thriving inclusion efforts, and the future of community disability sport post-lockdown.
Smooth sailing: The evolution of adaptive equipment in the sport
Brian Cuerrier of Belleville, ON uses the windlass to race at the Quebec Cup regatta in Pointe Claire Quebec with companion Emilie Léonard in 2015. Photo: Luka Bartulovic Innovations in sailing technology A slick white hull cuts through the salt waters just outside the Northwest Arm, a narrow inlet off Halifax, Nova Scotia. The 16-foot…
Para sport coach mentorship
In a Canadian study of mentor and mentee coaches involved in a virtual Para sport coach mentoring program, the mentee-mentor conversations regarding disability-specific knowledge enhanced the mentees’ confidence. This finding highlights not only the importance of effective communication between mentors and mentees, but also the crucial role it plays in mentees’ development.
Psychological skills training program for para athletes
Researchers from the University of Windsor have developed a free, fully accessible, self-paced, online Psychological Skills Training (PST) program, specifically designed for Para athletes. PST has been shown to enhance athlete confidence, motivation, and satisfaction within sport. This program is free for Para athletes to access via www.learnpst.com. Check it out!
Shoulder pain in wheelchair basketball athletes
Athletes that play wheelchair basketball have increased stress on their upper limbs, which can lead to shoulder pain. Although research in this area is limited, research suggests that strengthening exercises can be beneficial in reducing the risk of shoulder injuries. Further research is needed to determine the most optimal exercise type and duration required to…
Mentorship in Para sport: The value of experiential coach learning
Coach mentoring in Para sport In many ways, coaching athletes with and without disabilities is comparable as their training, dedication, and motivation to succeed are the same. However, there are contextual differences that make coaching in the Para sport setting unique. For example, it is important for coaches to have a strong understanding of specialized…
Challenges and solutions in parental support for young para-athletes
Parents supporting young para-athletes report challenges including limited local sports options and funding difficulties. Recognizing these hurdles, and understanding their impact, can inform improved support mechanisms for the sports sector like addressing cultural barriers, engaging parents in program development, enhancing access to sports for disabled youth, and refining talent identification pathways for aspiring para-athletes.
Parenting in parasport
Parents of athletes with disabilities face challenges like limited local sport options and funding, but they also experience benefits like social inclusion and support. Scholars suggest that sport programs should tackle these cultural and environmental barriers and actively involve parents in creating support systems. Additionally, there is a need to enhance talent identification pathways for…
Creating accessible program information
Sports participation has many social, physical and mental health benefits for children with disabilities. However, many children with disabilities and their families struggle to find relevant information about physical activity programs. To help overcome this barrier to participation, organizations may work to ensure that program information is easily accessible. Some best practices include ensuring that…