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Sports & Leisure

UCP’s Sports and Leisure Channel is designed for people with disabilities who are interested in sports and other leisure activities and proposes creative ideas for inclusive community recreation programs, including outdoor adventure activities for people with disabilities.

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Sports & Leisure

Sports & Leisure

General Principles:

  • A physician or other health care provider should be consulted before initiating an exercise program, particularly if you have health problems or are taking medication for a chronic health problem.

  • The assistance of a professional knowledgeable in exercise principles and techniques is often useful to help devise a program to meet your specific needs.

  • An exercise program should be individualized to meet the goals and potential of each person.

  • An exercise program can be carried out at home, in a general facility, or in a specialized facility. Special arrangements for accessibility, equipment, or assistance may be necessary.

  • Realistic performance goals need to be set at the beginning; the goals should be assessed at least every six months.

  • Exercise should be engaged in regularly; at least 3-5 times a week.

  • The duration of each exercise session needs to be adjusted periodically. In general, 20-30 minutes per session is the minimum goal. However, during the first few weeks, several short sessions (e.g.: 5-10 minutes) per day can be better than a longer period.

  • Exercise should aim at strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight muscles.

  • It is particularly important to increase the duration, intensity, and frequency of the exercise activity gradually. If you are at a beginning level, duration should be increased progressively before increasing intensity.

  • Physical activity and exercise need not be overly strenuous to achieve health benefits. A moderate level will accomplish the same purpose. Muscle soreness may accompany early progress.

  • Exercise with a partner for both social and safety benefits. For people with severe contractures or weakness, extra caution is advised to minimize muscle strain.

  • Light headedness, chest pain, difficulty breathing, excessive fatigue, nausea, moderate to severe joint or muscle pain are all important danger signals. Stop exercising! Discontinue the exercise program and seek a physician or other health care provider's advice before starting again.

© UCP Research and Educational Foundation, Exercise Priniciples and Guidelines for Persons with Cerebral Palsy and Neuromuscular Disorders