So walking groups.. and aqua-size classes are always going to be the good ol’ stand by… however we need to start thinking outside the box with regards to our physical activity programs. Especially when are wanting to break down barriers and reach people we normally don’t.
What are the programs that you do?
What are some neat, unique and innovative ideas you have tried? Doesn’t matter if they worked or didn’t work. We want… no wait.. we NEED to hear about them.
Also.. lets dream a little…. What are the programs you WISH you could do?
6 Comments
I work part-time in a fitness centre, which offers a lot of group classes, such as spin, boot camps, etc etc.
A few of us trainers got to chatting, and realized that we often heard from people how intimidating those classes can be. Especially for those just starting or thinking of starting. So we are now offering “Beginner” versions…
They have been a hit so far… I think its because it a group class were some folks “feel that they belong”.
I just came across a great article in the spring Alberta Association for Community Living newsletter.
It begins on page 4 and it’s titled “Calgary Recreation backs up its welcome to people with disabilities”.
http://www.aacl.org/Portals/0/Connections%20spring%202010.pdf
Here’s a snippet:
“It’s one thing to be welcomed; being truly supported to have a quality inclusive experience as a child, parent or recreation leader is another. Putting real
action and resources behind the City’s commitment to Inclusion that appears in its Recreation Program Guide is something that City Recreation’s Disability Outreach Coordinator Darlene Boyes takes seriously”
I attended the CAAWS Physical Activity & Sport for Women 55-70 workshop in Edmonton last year.
What an outstanding experience it was & I shamelessly promoted one of my life passions —the sport of Dragon Boating! It is an all-inclusive team sport for any age, gender or fitness level or ability.
I am the Race Director for the Edmonton Festival & invite everyone to contact us & come out. It is a fabulous way to relive youthful times & enjoy the outdoors & gorgeous river valley! Who knows where or what the involvement may bring you!
The website contact for us is:
http://www.edmontondragonboatfestival.com
contact me at darcy.director@edbfa.ca
Square Dancing – I have been active in this fun activity for most of my life. It encompasses everyone from teenagers to pensioners. Last weekend we met up in Radium Hot Springs and danced, golfed, toured the area, swim with other square dancers in Alberta and BC. This is a great activity for thinking, socializing, and dancing; classes are held each fall all over Canada and the US. We dance, camp and laugh all summer long and weekly throughout the year. An easy way to walk while you’re having fun!
I went to an amazing workshop on Capoeria – a great way to motivate everyone, of each ability, and inspires physical strength, flexibility, and non-verbal communication to be able to read a partners moves. Amazing. I think I spelt it right! I would love to be trained in this and to offer it to the youth in my community. Any ideas?