Para-athletes use a variety of specialized equipment in competition to help them perform at their best and overcome physical challenges. This equipment is carefully designed to meet the unique needs of athletes with disabilities, allowing them to compete on a level playing field with their able-bodied counterparts. Let’s take a closer look at the equipment commonly used by para-athletes in competition.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are essential equipment for many para-athletes who compete in sports such as wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, and wheelchair racing. These wheelchairs are specially designed to be lightweight, aerodynamic, and highly maneuverable, allowing athletes to move quickly and efficiently on the court or track.
- Racing wheelchairs: These wheelchairs are sleek, streamlined, and built for speed. They typically have three wheels, with a large wheel in the back for propulsion and smaller wheels in the front for stability.
- Basketball wheelchairs: These wheelchairs are designed for quick turns, stops, and starts on the basketball court. They have a lower seat to allow for better maneuverability and a wider wheelbase for stability.
- Tennis wheelchairs: These wheelchairs are similar to basketball wheelchairs but have additional features such as anti-tip bars and adjustable seat angles to accommodate the specific movements required in tennis.
Prosthetics
Prosthetic limbs are used by para-athletes who have undergone amputations or were born with limb deficiencies. These prosthetic limbs are custom-made to fit each athlete’s unique anatomy and sport-specific needs, allowing them to move and compete with greater ease and efficiency.
- Running blades: Running blades are commonly used by amputee athletes in track and field events. These blades are made of lightweight carbon fiber and are designed to store and release energy with each stride, providing a powerful push-off and increased speed.
- Swimming prosthetics: Swimmers with limb deficiencies may use prosthetic limbs or special swimming fins to help them move through the water more effectively. These prosthetics are designed to be hydrodynamic and provide maximum propulsion.
Assistive Devices
Assistive devices are used by para-athletes to help them participate in sports and activities that would otherwise be difficult or impossible due to their disabilities. These devices can range from simple modifications to complex technological solutions, depending on the athlete’s needs.
- Guide runners: Visually impaired athletes may use guide runners to assist them in track events. These guides run alongside the athlete, providing verbal cues and directional guidance to help them navigate the course.
- Throwing frames: Athletes with mobility impairments may use throwing frames in field events such as shot put or discus. These frames provide stability and support, allowing the athlete to generate maximum power and distance in their throws.
- Electric wheelchairs: Some para-athletes with limited mobility may use electric wheelchairs to compete in sports such as power soccer or wheelchair hockey. These wheelchairs are modified with specialized controls and features to enhance the athlete’s performance on the field.
Adaptive Sports Equipment
Adaptive sports equipment is specifically designed for para-athletes to participate in sports and activities tailored to their abilities and disabilities. These adaptive equipment help athletes perform at their best and enjoy the thrill of competition in a safe and supportive environment.
- Sledges: Sledges are used in sports such as sled hockey and para ice hockey. These sledges have a seat mounted on two skate blades, allowing athletes to maneuver on the ice using two mini sticks with metal picks on the ends.
- Racing guides: In sports such as cycling and skiing, visually impaired athletes may use racing guides to assist them during competition. These guides ride tandem bicycles or ski alongside the athlete, providing communication and guidance throughout the race.
- Goalball equipment: Goalball is a team sport for athletes with visual impairments. Players wear blackout masks to ensure a level playing field and track the ball using sound cues. The ball itself is specially designed with bells inside to help players locate and intercept it during gameplay.