There are many physical and chronic benefits to engaging in a physical activity regimen, but
just as important are the psychological benefits that occur from team based fitness programs,
such as wheelchair basketball, as well as other wheelchair recreational sports. These improve-
ments of the mind help to create new friendships and social networks that work to improve
overall well being.
Psychological
Psychological gains include an improvement of mood-state, with a reduction of anxiety and
depression, an increase of self-esteem and feelings of greater self-efficacy.
Sociological
Sociological gains include new experiences, new friendships, and a countering of stigmatiza-
tion. Perceived health is improved, and in a more long-term perspective there is a reduced
risk of many chronic diseases.
Overall Benefits
There is a greater likelihood of employment, with less absenteeism and enhanced productivi-
ty. Both the health and the industrial benefits have a potential to yield cost savings that could
make an important contribution toward the expense of suitably adapted physical activity pro-
grams. It is concluded that the physically disabled should be encouraged to engage in physical
activity.
Disability Performance Protocol
The Disability Performance Protocol is designed to help disabled students physically, socially,
and psychologically improve their wellbeing, through the use of structured weekly personal
fitness sessions designed to help improve all aspects of the individuals activities of daily living,
culminating in participation in a wheelchair basketball scrimmage designed to help increase
the students social network and feelings of inclusion.
8