It may not always be known, but many sports are adaptable to a disability situation. For example, french firm Vitalliance has launched a program to promote sport among its users. Indeed, the French Disabled Sports Federation, in collaboration with sports commissions, works to promote many sports practices adapted to physical or sensory disabilities. In total, in France, there are no less than 35,000 disabled sport licensees and more than 60,000 sportsmen and women practising a sport with a disability. Let’s go back in detail to the sports most recognized by the French Disabled Sports Federation.
1/ Basketball
The practice of basketball in situation of handicap is certainly the most famous handicap sport. It is also the oldest of all. As far as the rules are concerned, they are very similar to those of classic basketball. Indeed, two teams compete against each other, each composed of five players. The goal remains the same: to win as many points as possible by scoring baskets. The playing time is also the same, i.e. a match is divided into 4 periods of 10 minutes each. The only rule that differs is the number of rebounds allowed. In the case of wheelchair basketball, the ball must bounce every second wheel push. This practice requires a lot of speed and technical skill.
2/ The handbike
In cycling, there are several categories of para-cycling. We are particularly interested here in handbiking. This practice is suitable for people with lower limb injuries. Handbiking consists of using only the strength of the arms to train the operation of the crankset. Specialized companies in handisport equipment, such as SnM Europe, offer a wide range of handbikes. Handbikes usually have three wheels and a comfortable reclining seat. The handling of the handbike is simple thanks to a system of levers, capable of managing the different chainrings and brakes. Apart from this particularity of the controls, handbikes work in the same way as a conventional bicycle.
3/ Tennis
It is true that classical tennis is known to be a very physical sport requiring endurance and precision. But wheelchair tennis is even more difficult. The main rule that differs is the number of rebounds allowed. In wheelchair tennis, players are allowed 2 rebounds before sending the ball back to their opponent, with the second rebound being outside the court. Moreover, this sport can be played in singles or doubles. Since tennis is a very widespread sport in France, there are also many fans of wheelchair tennis. This is why a French wheelchair tennis championship is organized every year.
4/ Athletics
Athletics, as a whole, is a very varied sport with many events. There are 4 main categories at the Paralympic Games: track running, road running, jumping and throwing. But racing remains the most widespread sport, it even has a French championship. Whether sprint, relay or long distance races, the principle remains the same as for valid athletics, except for the presence of a wheelchair. The latter is designed in particular to reach a high speed. This is the case of the chairs made by SnM Europe which adapt perfectly to the degree of handicap of the athlete. Recognized for their lightness and aerodynamics, these chairs are suitable for all types of athletic events.
5/ Alpine skiing
Because sport also means being able to enjoy nature and the mountain air, it is logical that this sport should be adapted for people with disabilities. Indeed, alpine skiing is particularly interesting because it allows you to fully enjoy the feeling of sliding, regardless of the disability (physical or sensory). For people with physical disabilities, seated skiing has been developed since the 1980s, and SnM Europe has made it its specialty. The company offers a wide range of adapted products made from quality materials. These equipments are all compatible with the lifts present in French ski resorts. Moreover, it is important to know that a majority of ski resorts have adapted infrastructures.
