My Group - Disability

My Group | Disability

Being physically active is important for people of all ages and all abilities. People with disabilities tend to live less active lifestyles, yet everybody can benefit from activity. Some of the many benefits of activity include:

Development of physical fitness and motor skills
Reducing the risk of diabetes and some cancers
Reduced stress, depression and anxiety, and improved mental (psychological) well-being
Weight control
Improved bone density
Improved social skills when in a group

It doesn't matter what activity you choose to do, so long as you choose to get active every day. Adults should be active for 30 minutes each day and for children, 60 minutes is recommended. Remember, have fun and enjoy getting up, getting out... getting active. To get involved in a community activity, Search for an activity - alternatively you can contact the Gold Coast Recreation and Sport Inc by phone 07 5531 3312 or take a look at Sporting Wheelies.

Looking for a place to play? The Gold Coast City Council parks provide some awesome places for our amazing kids. A range of playgrounds with specialised equipment for children with a disability can be found on the Gold Coast Parks website.

Benefits of Gardening

Gardening presents opportunities for participants with a range of disabilities to explore and develop their skills. ‘Post Schools Options’ therapy garden on the New South Wales central coast was specially designed to provide therapy through gardening for people with physical or intellectual disabilities - a great program with wonderful results. For additional information visit ABC Gardening Australia Horticultural Therapy or the take a visit to one of the Gold Coast's Community Gardens.

The Gold Coast Botanic Gardens showcase a sensory garden; a space that stimulates senses, memory and mood which can assist to rehabilitate injured people and improve health. A garden that has fragrance, different textures, colours, shapes and aromas has the ability to stimulate senses and bring back memories. Visit the Botanic Gardens or contact your local nursery for more information.

Resources and Opportunities

The Australian Sports Commission uses it's Sports CONNECT program to connect people with disability to local clubs, education and training opportunities offered, and Sports Ability - an inclusive games and training program. There are many other resources such as activity cards demonstrating inclusive game ideas for people with and without disabilities. Take a look around the Australian Sport Commission Disability Sport web-page.

Radar - the disability rights people also have a fantastic guide available 'Doing Sport Differently'. This is a guide to exercise and fitness specifically for people living with disability or health conditions. This free guide covers the benefits of sport and fitness and how you can get involved - whether playing, watching or coaching.