Today in the world, including in our country, there are a large number of people who have some degree of disability. But many of them have a desire to engage in physical education for the purpose of rehabilitation or for pleasure. And the dream of participating in the Paralympic Games also plays a significant role
It is for such people with disabilities that adaptive sports were created. Their peculiarity is that they are fully adapted for people with disabilities or health conditions.
Athletics
Athletics is included in the list of Paralympic sports. Athletes with various health impairments can exercise. Now this type is rapidly developing and adapting not only to people who cannot see or hear, but also to those who have lost a limb, suffered a stroke, or suffer from cerebral palsy.
It is not at all necessary to practice in order to be on the podium. The most important thing is that the person himself enjoys the classes. Of course, there are some restrictions here - steeplechase, pole vaulting, and hammer throwing remain prohibited.
Wheelchair basketball
Adaptive sports for people with disabilities include wheelchair basketball. The rules here are almost the same as in regular basketball, but the game takes place on special wheelchairs that do not have tires, but have brakes and a special place to place your feet.
Bocce
This is another interesting and popular sport that people with disabilities love. This game is one of the most ancient, and Greece is considered its homeland. The rules here are simple - you need to try to knock out the opponent’s ball with your ball, and at the same time not touch the pallino - the central ball, which is installed in advance.
Cycling
The list of sports adapted for the disabled includes cycling, but, of course, not in its classical sense. Competitions take place on tracks and tracks. You can also exercise in a regular gym - the most important thing is that there are conditions for the disabled.
Cycling helps increase physical strength, avoid depression, and helps build communication. And it’s not at all necessary to chase records - it’s important to practice for yourself, so as not to lose heart and forget that life goes on.
Fencing
You can take part in fencing competitions, which is also included in the Paralympic Games, using special wheelchairs. They are equipped with a mechanism that allows a person to move back and forth.
Of course, such a sport requires certain skills. But most importantly, he has many fans and true fans.
Football 7x7
This sport has many differences from regular football, but the competitions remain spectacular and attract entire halls. The players on the team have different levels of disability, and there are not 11 in total, but 7 people.
Currently, such competitions are not included in the list of the Paralympic Games. As part of these games in 1984, when 7 on 7 football was included in the program for the first and last time, Russia became the champion.
Now people with cerebral palsy or other neurological diseases that interfere with movement take part in this sport.
Weightlifting
The correct name for this sport is powerlifting, or powerlifting. Since 1984, this sport has been included in the Paralympic Games.
The diagnoses of people who participate in these competitions vary, but the most important thing for them is to keep themselves in shape. After all, most of them were already athletes before the injury, or they were advised to take up this sport for the purpose of rehabilitation.
Judo
Here the rules differ only slightly from those generally accepted for healthy people. Blind or visually impaired athletes can participate in competitions. Since 1988, competitions began to be held for men, and since 2004, women have also been allowed to take part in them.
This wrestling is quite popular; there are many athletes in America. Of course, not all of them want to take part in the Olympics. Many people exercise to stay fit. Some people just want additional communication.
Swimming
The pool is used as a normal one, and the rules are basically exactly the same as for healthy athletes. The only difference is the athlete’s posture at the start. Some start standing, some start sitting, while others do it while already in the water.
If blind or visually impaired people participate in competitions, then assistants with poles stand at the end of the paths. As soon as the athlete reaches the pole and touches it, he needs to turn and swim back.
In addition to the Paralympic championships, swimming competitions are held at regional and national levels.
Archery
This sport is very popular, and today it is practiced in 54 countries around the world. Competitions are held both individual and team, and the athlete can be in a wheelchair or in a standing position.
There are 10 scoring zones marked on the target, and shooting takes place from a distance of 70 m. The diameter of the target is 122 cm. There is no difference in archery for women and men.
Sailing
In the country, sailing for disabled people is supervised by the The American Sailing Association. It was first included in the Paralympic Games in 1983, and has become especially popular in countries where it can be practiced all year round.
Of course, an athlete with disabilities in mastering this sport requires the help of a coach, as well as an assistant who will be nearby and suggest the direction of movement if, for example, the athlete is blind. But it is not at all necessary to chase records, and if there is such an opportunity, then it is advisable for a person with a disability to try this sport. Not only does it help make the body strong, but it is also good for mental rehabilitation after severe injury.
Wheelchair tennis
This type of tennis is specially adapted for people with mobility problems. The equipment here is standard, and the site is also ordinary. But the players move using wheelchairs. There are certain rules regarding hitting the ball. It can be done after the second rebound, even if it occurred outside the boundaries of the court, and this is stipulated by the rules.
This is not only the official form of the Paralympic Games. Such competitions are held as part of the Grand Slam tournament. International and regional competitions for wheelchair tennis players are also held.
Volleyball
Here competitions are held not in wheelchairs, but while sitting on the floor. In America, this sport began to develop in the late 80s of the 20th century. Two teams of 6 people each take part in the game. The winner is determined by points.
The site has non-standard dimensions - 10 by 6 m. It is divided into two parts. The height of the net is 1.15 m for men and 1.05 m for women.
Wheelchair dancing
Wheelchair ballroom dancing is a Paralympic sport. Here, athletes are divided by type of injury, as well as by style of performance and program presented. Such dances first appeared in Great Britain in the late 60s of the 20th century, and became a good way for the rehabilitation of disabled people with musculoskeletal problems.
There are two style options in total. The first is called a combo, when a disabled dancer and a healthy partner participate. The second is a duet, and two disabled dancers perform here.
Table tennis
Table tennis is a popular sport that attracts many people. Its adapted version is well suited for people with various health conditions. In many cities there are large sports clubs for this sport, where not only professionals, but also amateurs and, of course, beginners take part in tournaments.
If you are Looking for an opportunity to share your expertise in fitness? Write for us at Fitness! We're seeking passionate contributors to provide valuable insights, tips, and workouts. Whether it's nutrition, exercise science, or personal training, your knowledge can inspire and educate our readers. Join our community today!
