Disability Snowsports

As one of the most challenging type of sports, alpine skiing is not the first sport you think of as being ideal for disabled people – but according to the British Paralympic Association it is a rapidly growing sport and is practised in over 35 countries.

People who cannot ski standing up can are now getting involved in snow sports by using a seated ski or ‘mono ski’, which is attached to a single race ski.

Disabled participants include people who have spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, amputees and those with visual impairments.  The equipment is adapted to suit variousdisabilities meaning more people than ever can enjoy skiing.

Disability Snowsport UK

The sport is open to people of all ages, whether you’re 14 or 49, anyone with some degree of mobility can take part.  The benefits can be life-changing, improving self-esteem, confidence, independence and fitness.  Disability Snowsport UK is a charity dedicated to helping people get into the sport.

Lewis, a 14 year-old boy with severe cerebral palsy, tried skiing through Disability Snowsport UK and took to it immediately.  Through the support and encouragement he received Lewis soon became confident on the slopes.  His dad comments: “Lewis thoroughly enjoyed himself and it has brought tremendous joy to us, seeing him so happy and participating in a sport which we thought would never be possible for him to do.”

For more information click disabilitysnowsport here.