You say it every Summer. “This is the year I‘m going to try something new,” when it comes to getting out of your activity comfort zone. Something that gets you outside, gets you healthy, and *gasp*, something that’s even fun. There are a variety of adapted sports and activities you can explore as a person with a disability. Some are more expensive (because of the necessary equipment), but some can be participated for less than $10. Here are my favs.
Waterskiing: Adapted waterskiing is one of those awesome adapted sports that is just as thrilling sitting down as it is standing. By using a ski which is comprised of metal frame seat fixed to either one or two waterskis (which depends on the arm and torso mobility level of the skier), you can easily enjoy the ride and even maneuver yourself across the wake. To find adapted waterskiing sessions near you, contact your nearest rehab facility. www.aquaskier.com/disabled.htm
Handcycling: Biking is like the blob right now – spreading across the country (in popularity) like a voracious life force. Don’t let a lack of functioning legs stop you. Try a handcycle. They’re a great workout, and an even greater way to participate in a sport in an equal way to able-bodied counterparts. I tried the sport years ago in rehab, and while it was really challenging, I could tell that if I had stayed with it (which sadly I didn’t) it very well could’ve transformed me into a female-version of the Incredible Hulk. Also, check out eBay for awesome deals on handcycles and handcycling equipment. www.disaboom.com/handcycling
Archery: Archery is a great way to channel your inner Robin Hood. I also tried this sport years ago in rehab (thank you Courage Center) in an underground garage no less (which actually worked quite well for the sport), but now that warm weather in upon us, it’s a great time to delve into this ancient sport outside; whether in a park, a field, or even your backyard. To make archery accessible to those with significant arm/hand disabilities, archery rigs are available (freestanding or mounted to your wheelchair), as well as trigger releases. Adapted archery classes are frequently taught at rehab facilities. www.americandisabledarchers.com
Canoeing: Adaptive paddling equals the playing field when it comes to participating in the sport with able-bodied folks, and is a great way for water lovers to get near their one true love without getting wet. Whether a canoe or kayak is used, the activity itself is made accessible by integrating anything into the watercraft that makes the canoe/kayak both safe AND fully-usable by the person with a disability. Extra seating support and paddle grips are just some of the adaptations used. www.adaptivepaddling.org
And the cheap route: If buying expensive equipment isn’t in your budget, or if you live far from any classes or sessions, look into yard games, like Baggo, bocce ball, badminton, even croquet! I’ve successfully played several rounds of bocce ball from my wheelchair (on the lawn around my mom’s boat house with friends) with the only assistance needed was them picking up the ball for me after each throw, and setting it on my lap. I even won (once)!
What adaptive sports have you tried? What has been your favorite? Have you made any special modifications to make it more usable for a person with a disability?
I got this amazing new product that has made my place even more accessable. It is called the Free Wheel. It attaches to the front of the chairs footplate and lets you go over surfaces that were tough to before. I can go on my lawn with ease or down a rough road.
I bought it at the L.A. Abilities show for $450 bucks and it was worth every penny. The best thing about it is that it is built by a fellow chair user. Not one to discriminate, but it is easier handing money over to one of us.