Physical Activity and Fitness for Persons with Disabilities.

Historically, the approach to physical activity for people with disabilities has been couched in medical rationale and focused on rehabilitation. This does not account for physical activity for the joy of it as in play, exercise to improve or maintain fitness, or activity required in employment. The new paradigm of healthy, active lifestyles for people with disabilities is one of inclusion and integration. Today, adapted physical education programs in the schools include games, sports, rhythms, and aquatics suited to the individual needs, capabilities, and limitations of students with disabilities. This paper focuses on the benefits of physical activity and physical fitness for people with disabilities, the challenges to becoming physically active, and the effects of disabilities on health-related fitness components (cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition). The paper also discusses how communities can promote physical activity and fitness programs for people with disabilities. It examines the move to inclusive education for students with disabilities, and it considers issues related to sports for people with disabilities. A list of pertinent professional organizations is included. (Contains 25 references.) (SM)