Physical Activity for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Despite the fact that cerebral palsy affects the balance, coordination, muscles, and movements of individuals, adaptive sports can be used to help individuals with cerebral palsy stay physically active. High-quality physical education and movement opportunities can integrate children with cerebral palsy into movement programing, as to enable children with cerebral palsy to achieve goals related to cognitive skills associated with exploring physical health, maintaining physical health, as well as affective values towards physical health, movement, play, and general wellbeing. Cerebral palsy has not prevented some people from being athletes who have managed to compete on the international stage. Sports is one way to encourage people with cerebral palsy to socialize, be fit, stay healthy, and, most importantly, have fun. Enjoyment of physical activity can improve the self-efficacy of individuals with cerebral Palsy. It can motivate them to override pain and sustain their participation. This article details the considerations, recommendations, safety concerns, and facilitation protocols for individuals with cerebral palsy participating in adapted sport.