Sports, which provide so many opportunities for personal achievement, team success, physical fitness and lessons in sportsmanship and teamwork, can be enjoyed by athletes of all abilities and disabilities. With the continued improvement of prosthetic limbs and other modifications, such as racing wheelchairs and adaptive bikes, there are few sports left that disabled athletes can't train for and compete in. The training may be a little different, but good health and healthy competition are universal values.
Choose a Sport
Many sports have been modified through the years to allow disabled athletes to compete. For example, athletes who have lost their legs can operate handcycles, and wheelchair athletes can compete now in sports ranging from basketball to tennis to fencing. Regardless of your disability, you can find a sport that can accommodate your special needs. Once you find a sport, organizations such as Disabled Sports USA can help you find someone or a nearby organization to help you train.
Mental Approach to Training
One of the key Paralympic values is determination, defined as the ability "to overcome obstacles and to conquer adversity, pushing one's physical ability to the absolute limit." USA Swimming's approach to training athletes with disabilities says your efforts to overcome those obstacles should focus on attention control, goal-setting, imagery where you picture your ideal outcome, positive self-talk and relaxation.
Accommodations for Your Disability
Once you have selected a sport and are mentally and physically ready to start training, ask questions about the facilities, accommodations and program specifics. For example, find out if your soccer program has players walk, rather than run, when bringing the ball down field, or whether volleyball games will use a softer, lighter ball. The more you know about the sport, the better you'll be able to train under game conditions.
Consult the Experts
Before beginning any type of training, whether you're disabled or not, you should consult your doctor for advice or warnings about specific activities. You may be referred to a physical therapist or a rehabilitation specialist who works with patients who have lost a limb, struggle with conditions such as muscular dystrophy or otherwise need assistance with sports training. Social service organizations in your community may also help.
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