Sport and recreation activities provide a means of reintegration into the community following a spinal cord injury, an opportunity to make new friends while receiving invaluable peer support, and health benefits through physical activity. Whether it’s a once- a-week pick-up basketball game, or a lifelong passion that results in a Paralympic gold medal, participating in adapted sports can greatly increase your quality of life. Here are a few contacts to get you started

Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with SCI

Physical activity plays a critical role in overall health. The loss of fitness and independence associated with physical inactivity greatly impacts quality-of-life and community participation for people with spinal cord injury (SCI). In fact, the leading causes of death among people with SCI are chronic diseases, such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes, which are often caused by physical inactivity.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with SCI are the first evidence-based guidelines to be developed specifically to support people with SCI in living healthier, more active lives. They state that to improve fitness, healthy adults with SCI should participate in at least 20 minutes of moderate-vigorous aerobic activity two times per week, as well as strength training exercises two times per week.

The Guidelines recommend a wide variety of aerobic and strength training activities that are appropriate for people with SCI. For example, aerobic activities such as arm cycling, body weight supported treadmill walking or water exercise, or strength training exercises using weights, or elastic resistance bands will help get the heart rate up, improve strength and muscle mass.

For people with SCI, the lack of physical conditioning due to their injury is linked to an increased risk for chronic secondary health complications, such as pain and pressure ulcers. Participating in regular physical activity may go a long way in helping reduce the frequency and severity of secondary complications.

Visit the SCI Action Canada website to view the full Guidelines at www.sciactioncanada.ca/guidelines

Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association (CWSA)

The CWSA is a is a national sport organization representing wheelchair athletes which provides a national link for the development of wheelchair athletes and sports, at all levels and in all areas of the country. Provincial affiliates are linked on the left side of the CWSA website.

Wheelchair Basketball Canada

Wheelchair Basketball Canada is the national sports governing body responsible for the organization of wheelchair basketball in Canada. It is a non-profit, charitable organization that is the Canadian member to the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation. Click here to find your provincial affiliate for more information about wheelchair basketball clubs in your area.

Bridging the Gap

Bridging the Gap is a program specifically designed to help you become aware of the sport and recreation options available, and to try out wheelchair sports of your choice. Bridging the Gap host Have-a-Go Days that provide opportunities for individuals to experience a variety of wheelchair sports in a fun, supportive atmosphere.  Current wheelchair athletes volunteer their time to demonstrate the sports and to let participants know about clinics and programs that are available to them. For information on Bridging the Gap programs in your community, click here.

Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing

The Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing (CADS) helps individuals with living with disabilities lead richer and fuller lives through active participation in recreational and competitive snow skiing and snowboarding. To find information about CADS programs in your province, click here.