Adaptive Sports

Sports that have been modified or specifically designed to enable participation by people with disabilities, including modifications to rules, equipment, or playing environments. Adaptive sports range from wheelchair versions of mainstream sports (basketball, rugby, tennis) to sports developed specifically for people with disabilities (goalball, beepball). Participation in adaptive sports has been shown to improve physical health, mental well-being, social connection, and employment outcomes for people with disabilities. Despite growing participation, adaptive sports face significant technological inequality compared to able-bodied sports, particularly in areas like data analytics, performance tracking, and equipment innovation.