The Important Role of Fitness and Physical Activity for Individuals with Disabilities
Physical activity is important for maintaining health, overall well-being, and quality of life.
It can help us
- control weight
- improve mental health by reducing depression and anxiety
- lower the risk for early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
For people with disabilities, physical activity can help support daily living activities and increase independence. With access to education through IDEA, many children now have options to participate in fitness activities in the school setting and with organizations like Special Olympics.
It’s important to note that their disability doesn’t always keep them from participating in general school or community sports and activities. Many parents find there are barriers for their children because of misinformation about individuals with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities.
It’s all about finding the best fit based on interests and abilities. There are many adaptive sports, dances, and activities available to both children and adults. But it doesn’t have to stop there!
There are activities such as yoga, martial arts, bowling, swimming, and many more that our loved ones with disabilities can access. It doesn’t always have to be an adaptive or special program. I encourage you to research all physical activities in your community. Exposing your child to a variety of activities will help them find the ones they are most interested in.
When we think of physical activity, we think of fitness and exercise. Cardio and strength training are great options for everyone, including those with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. For parents, finding and accessing these options can be challenging. It’s important to research any program or sport before placing your child.
Consider their interests and what they like to do. If they’ve been sedentary and are just beginning a fitness routine, it’s important to start slowly. Supporting their fitness journey by doing activities together is a great way to encourage them. A family walk, doing an exercise video together, or playing catch can be great, simple ways to get started.
What are the Barriers to Fitness for Individuals with Disabilities?
Despite the many benefits associated with exercise, there are often barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from getting enough physical activity.
One reason adults with disabilities often don’t get the exercise they need is due to a lack of community support. Facility administrators and community center directors must take an active role in providing individuals with disabilities with opportunities for regular physical activity.
The key is to include people with disabilities in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of these spaces and programs. Giving them a voice in this process will provide greater understanding, compassion, and accessibility for everyone.
Lack of Knowledge is another barrier that people with disabilities face. They may not be aware of these exercise spaces that are available to them. This includes accessible gyms, community centers, walking paths, etc.
Social anxiety can make people with disabilities uncomfortable exercising in public spaces due to social stigmas. They don’t want to be seen as different or have people stare. This must change! With education and sharing facts with the general public, we can make this an easier process for individuals. When they participate in fitness and other activities it can reduce stress and boost self-esteem and confidence.
Some people with physical disabilities may have a fear of falling or how to use fitness centers safely. Having a personal trainer who specializes in individuals with disabilities can provide the instruction and training so that people feel safe and confident.
FITNESS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY RESOURCES
Special Olympics (www.specialolympics.org)
- They offer a variety of activities for both children and adults. Check your area for a local Special Olympics delegation Special Olympics [STATE].
Adaptive Fitness Companies
- Special Strong (https://www.specialstrong.com/locations/)
- Kenzie’s Kids: they offer virtual fitness training making it accessible for everyone. https://www.kenzieskids.com/
- Adaptive Sports Foundation https://www.adaptivesportsfoundation.org/virtualfitness/
- Move United- offering virtual adaptive sports and fitness. https://moveunitedsport.org/
- DPI Adaptive Fitness – virtual fitness programs. https://www.dpiadaptivefitness.co/
Local Parks and Recreation Centers
- Many centers offer programs including sports, dances, creative activities, educational classes, and more. Search their guide or calendar for adaptive programs.
Center for Disease Control (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/disability-and-health/articles-documents/physical-activity-for-people-with-disability.html
As a community, we have a responsibility to make fitness programs and spaces accessible and inclusive for all individuals, including our neighbors and friends with disabilities. This starts with community leaders, business owners, and individuals with disabilities working together to plan spaces, centers, and opportunities.
