I’m New to Parasport

How do I begin?

Can I Play?

Parasport is open to anyone with a disability. It can be played by athletes with a visual impairment, a spinal cord injury, amputations, cerebral palsy, an intellectual disability, spinal bifida, multiple sclerosis, or other disabilities. Parasport programs use processes to make sure that the playing field is even, whether you're a beginner or have varying abilities. Participants with intellectual disabilities can also find more information by visiting Special Olympics Canada or the Canadian Association of Athletes with Intellectual Disability. Although not integrated into the Canadian parasport system, you can also find information on sport for people with hearing impairments.

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Guidelines

Physical activity plays a critical role in overall health – click here to download Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with SCI, from SCI Action Canada

Did You Know?

There are so many different parasports and you are not limited to playing just one. Trying anything new can have its challenges. Keep trying and do not give up!

How do I get started?

To start, find an introductory program in your area. These programs will introduce you to parasport and teach you the basic skills, movements, and rules of the game. You'll also improve your fitness while having a lot of fun!

Many programs let you borrow adapted equipment so you can try multiple parasports before selecting your favourite and buying your own equipment.

To get started, find a local sport club near you.

"I was really glad when my Recreation Specialist suggested I try sit-skiing. At first, I couldn't even think about what it was all about, but I have learned that it is something I can do for fun! I would love to see more people with a disability like me out skiing. My Recreation Specialist got me into this and I plan to enjoy it to the fullest!"

- Pamela, cross country skiier

Guides, Pilots and Coxswains are Athletes Too!

There is an opportunity in the parasport community for athletes who are able-bodied to provide support for athletes with a visual impairment. The sports where guides are needed include Athletics, Cross Country Skiing, Alpine Skiing, and Triathlon. Sighted athletes are also used in Cycling, where they are called pilots. In Rowing, sighted able-bodied athletes are involved as coxswains.

If you are interested in becoming a guide, pilot or coxswain, and are already part of a sport club, ask if they have any athletes in need of one of these roles. Otherwise, get started by contacting a local sport club, or the corresponding National Sport Organization.

"My first experience with trying a parasport was 5 months after my amputation through the encouragement of an existing member of the volleyball team I met during a 5k. Playing the sport changed my life from dealing with my accident in a negative way & turning it around into a very positive experience!"
- Chantal Beauchesne, 2010-2011 Women's National Sitting Volleyball Team member.

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