Recreation - TECHNIQUES & EQUIPMENT

As varied as the types of sports and recreation activities can be there are as many or more types of techniques and adaptive equipment available for use. In reality there is simply not enough space to cover every technique and piece of equipment out there. Many of these are merely the starting point and then adapted to fit the individuals need as the lesson progresses. Equipment and teaching techniques are constantly changing and evolving as technology advances. Below are but a few of the techniques and equipment used in our programs

With alpine skiing, teaching disciplines are broken down into 4 major groups and then adapted to each individual’s needs. These disciplines are Sit Down skiing (Mono, Bi or Sit Ski), 3 and 4 track skiing, Blind Guiding, 2 track or stand up skiing.

Each discipline serves a variety of clients. Sit down skiing can be done by someone who has had a spinal cord injury and uses a wheelchair, has difficulty standing or moving around, balance issues, lack of muscle tone – these are but a few of the many reasons one might be a sit down skier as opposed to a stand up skier.

3 and 4 track skiing is in reference to the tracks one makes in the snow. An individual 3 track skiing makes three tracks in the snow by using their one ski and the two outriggers (canadian crutches with short skis on the end), individuals using this technique may be an amputee or someone without the ability to use one of their legs to any great measure. 4 track skiing refers to the 4 tracks made in the snow; 2 tracks from the skis and 2 tracks from the outriggers. As with sit down skiing there are a variety of individuals that may use either of these disciplines to assist with their skiing.

Blind Guiding is a method used for individuals that are blind or visually impaired. The exact technique and level of guiding depends on the degree of blindness or visual impairment.

2 track skiing is the discipline most often used by individuals with developmental or cognitive disabilities. These individuals may have spina bifida, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, learning disabilities or emotional behavioral issues to name a few.

With each of these disciplines there many different types of adaptive equipment available for use. Sit down equipment generally consists of mono skis, bi skis, twin skis, sit skis or a sit down snowboard. Of these basic types of equipment there are many different designs available so skiers can find the ski they are most comfortable and successful with and potentially purchase their own for independent use.

Outriggers are used for 3 and 4 track skiing. Blind Guiding can use identifying vests and radios as well as many pieces of equipment used for other stand up skiers. Stand up skiers may benefit from the use of ski bras, tethers, the bamboo pole, snow slider, edgie wedgie and many other smaller interesting devices. To include all the equipment available would fill more than one book, these are all examples of but a few of the more regularly used types of equipment.

Snowboarding is also a very popular sport and there are many additional pieces of adaptive equipment available to assist the snowboarder in becoming successful.

Nordic skiing can be done as a stand up skier or a sit down skier and specialized equipment is available for these individuals as well.

For summer sports there are many different techniques and equipment available to assist an individual in participation of a particular sport. Sailing offers specialized seats, rigging and “puff technology” for those with little or no mobility. Canoeing and Kayaking can be done with specialized seats, paddles, backrests, pontoons for stability and much more. Waterskiing can be done with sit down water skis, special booms and ropes, twin skis and other such devices. Biking has many different types and styles of bikes available for individuals. Vermont Adaptive works primarily with tandem bikes and we have currently have 3 different styles (2 hybrids, 1 road bike and a recumbent). Horseback riding has many different types of saddles, bridles, bits and arena “toys” for use with Therapeutic Riding programs. Hiking also has a variety of adaptive equipment available for use when needed.

One of the most important points covered in all of our trainings is that when starting a sport or recreational activity with an individual whenever possible our goal is to start using no adaptive equipment at all and work up from there. Many times special equipment is not needed as much as confidence boosters, and specific technique training and practice. Vermont Adaptive is committed to furthering the equality and independence of individuals with disabilities. The easier we can make it for an individual to become successful in their pursuit of their sport, the easier it is for everyone.

For more information about other techniques, equipment and equipment manufacturers please contact us at 802-786-4991