Benefits and barriers to physical activity for individuals with disabilities: a social-relational model of disability perspective

Abstract Purpose: To provide a qualitative overview of selected research on physical activity (PA) engagement by people with physical disabilities from a social relational model perspective. Method: Selected articles that exemplify some of the paradoxes, nuances, contrasting perspectives and complexities of the knowledge base in this area are discussed within a disability studies framework. Results: PA is arguably more important for people with disabilities relative to people without disabilities although they are quite inactive. Individuals who are physically activity enjoy a range of benefits spanning physiological, emotional, cognitive and social categories. Unfortunately many people cannot enjoy the benefits of PA because of the many medical, psychological, social and environmental barriers they face making PA quite difficult. Conclusions: Rehabilitation professionals can provide a better standard of care to clients if they are aware of the benefits and barriers of PA. Implications for Rehabilitation Rehabilitation professionals should understand behavior change strategies and their application to people with disabilities in order to help their clients initiate and maintain physical activity (PA). Rehabilitation professionals should be aware of how they might convey low PA expectations to their clients and simultaneously understand the unique challenges faced by their clients in attempting to incorporate PA into their lives on a regular basis. Rehabilitation professionals should be familiar with local disability friendly exercise facilities and adapted sport programs in order to steer their clients towards such opportunities.

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