By Patrick Flanagan
Everyone knows that physical activity is good for you – physically, mentally and socially.
Participating in sport brings all those benefits as well, plus the added element of competition for those who want it.
Some people will say that all it takes is to make the decision to start, but the reality for some of us who are inspired by our Paralympic peers can be very different.
People with disabilities can face many challenges when looking to participate in sport or physical activity, not least finding what and where opportunities are available.
So if you are inspired to begin, return to, or push farther in a sport or physical activity, here are some ways you can start.
Stretch or stroll
Sometimes it’s the simple things like basic exercise that people enjoy the most when looking to get active.
Just taking half an hour to stretch your muscles, or head down the road for a walk, run or roll can give many people all the benefits they need.
This can be done alone, or with the assistance of a friend or family member. It is also important to consult with a physiotherapist or doctor for advice on the exercise routine for you.
Paralympics Ireland
If you’ve been inspired to the point that you know right away that you want to be a Paralympian, then where better to start than Paralympics Ireland? You can identify what sports will be best suited for you, and what governing body you can turn to.
Start your journey to Tokyo 2020 here:
CARA Adapted Physical Activity Centre
The CARA APA Centre may the most important resource available, working in partnership with the majority of sports and physical activity organisations across the country.
From clubs to gyms to schools, CARA advocates for and supports accessibility and integration for people with disabilities and will be able to help you identify exactly where and who you can go to, in order to find what you are looking for.
You can find out more about CARA APA Centre here
Irish Wheelchair Association
Almost every organisation that supports people with disabilities can provide pathways to participation in sport and physical activity.
The Irish Wheelchair Association is one of the best examples of this, providing a dedicated support - IWA Sport - to service users nationwide.
IWA Sport’s clubs and sports sections can be found here
Local clubs and community
Often what you’re looking for is right at your front door, all you have to do is ask. Sports clubs and activity groups are becoming increasingly inclusive, with more and more support available to facilitate people with disabilities, so it is well worth reaching out and seeing how you can get involved.
There are also 17 Local Sports Partnerships around Ireland, who have a responsibility to ensure that opportunities for physical activity and participation in sport are there to support you and your local clubs and communities.
Find your Local Sports Partnership here
Patrick Flanagan is a former captain of the Irish Powerchair Football team, and works with Muscular Dystrophy Ireland.
