I’ve loved sports as far back as I can remember. I enjoy watching them on TV and going to games. Growing up, I also participated in adaptive sports as well.
When I was younger, I participated in a baseball program called Buddy Baseball. I liked being around other disabled people. As a teenager, I also participated in sled hockey.
I also enjoy swimming and biking. Swimming helps relax my spasticity and loosens my muscles. I can move around freely in the pool. Biking is one of my favorite lower-body exercises. Later this year, I plan to purchase a therapeutic bike. I enjoy using it at my local rehabilitation clinic.
Through sports, I met people with various disabilities. I spent several years studying martial arts as well. Socially, recreational activities allowed me to form some wonderful friendships. I met my best friend while taking Tae Kwon Do. He is now my roommate and full-time PCA.
Physical activity in any form is essential for disabled people. According to a 2021 report from the American College of Sports Medicine, physical activity among children with disabilities is four times lower than that of their non-disabled peers. Martial arts helped improve my stamina and balance. The physical therapists I worked with noticed improvement in my strength.
Recreational activities have many benefits for disabled people. I am grateful for the opportunities I had to experience sports. The relationships I formed through sports are some of my most cherished ones, and they would never have happened if I hadn’t participated in sports.
Source:
Havsy, Jane. “’I Can Do More’: NJ Kids with Physical Disabilities Struggle to Play, Compete.” Kids with Physical Disabilities Lack Access to Sports, North Jersey Media Group, 19 Jan. 2023, https://www.northjersey.com/in-depth/news/2023/01/18/nj-kids-with-physical-disabilities-lack-access-to-sports/69509959007/.