As parents and educators, we are always looking to draw out the best in our students. In the classroom, we desire to see growth through learning of fundamental skills. In public, we look for continued positive growth in socialization. At home, we focus on teaching life skills. Throughout all the areas that we strive to improve, one area that is often forgotten about is the area of physical activity and exercise. Physical activity is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle and can be an effective method of fostering growth in other areas of our students’ lives.
Physical exercise, sporting activities, and participating in games is a common part of growing up. Opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be limited. There are multiple barriers to participation in these activities for students with disabilities. A few barriers could be public attitudes, lack of recreation opportunities, physical accommodations, transportation, and the finances involved in participation. All of these barriers play a part in limiting physical activity. While these barriers exist and may be discouraging, there are a growing number of possibilities for these students.
Now that we have recognized the barriers to participation in physical activity, it is important to focus on the benefits. There are countless benefits to exercise for students with disabilities. Exercise plays an integral role in the development of all students, whether they have a disability or not. Most of the benefits are shared among all individuals.
First, there are countless physical benefits to exercise. Physical activity increases the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Over time, this will allow for greater capacity to perform daily routines while combatting fatigue. Exercise improves muscular strength and functioning. By building strength in the major muscles of the arms and legs, an individual will improve their gross motor skills. Strengthening of the stabilizer muscles will assist in improved balance and coordination. Exercise also plays an integral part in minimizing secondary health concerns such as diabetes and obesity. These health issues are increasing in children and adolescents at an alarming rate, and are very common in students with disabilities. By increasing physical activity, each individual is making progress toward a healthier body and improving their ability to function in everyday life.
Second, there are emotional and psychological benefits that come as a result of participating in physical activities and exercise regimens. While going through the demands of each day, stress builds up and can cause physical symptoms as well as behavioral outbursts. Exercise is a healthy way to manage stress levels and release the tension that accumulates. After completing an exercise session, chemicals called endorphins are released in the brain. These chemicals give a feeling of euphoria and satisfaction. Endorphins can be beneficial in combatting symptoms of depression and low mood. Another emotional benefit to participation is the increase in self-esteem. When individuals work hard, they feel a sense of accomplishment. This
sense of accomplishment works to improve their self-esteem and self-worth. The increase of self-esteem is an extremely valuable benefit as individuals with disabilities often struggle with acceptance and their view of themselves.
To read the rest of Tyler’s article, click here.
Physical exercise, sporting activities, and participating in games is a common part of growing up. Opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be limited. There are multiple barriers to participation in these activities for students with disabilities. A few barriers could be public attitudes, lack of recreation opportunities, physical accommodations, transportation, and the finances involved in participation. All of these barriers play a part in limiting physical activity. While these barriers exist and may be discouraging, there are a growing number of possibilities for these students.
Now that we have recognized the barriers to participation in physical activity, it is important to focus on the benefits. There are countless benefits to exercise for students with disabilities. Exercise plays an integral role in the development of all students, whether they have a disability or not. Most of the benefits are shared among all individuals.
First, there are countless physical benefits to exercise. Physical activity increases the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Over time, this will allow for greater capacity to perform daily routines while combatting fatigue. Exercise improves muscular strength and functioning. By building strength in the major muscles of the arms and legs, an individual will improve their gross motor skills. Strengthening of the stabilizer muscles will assist in improved balance and coordination. Exercise also plays an integral part in minimizing secondary health concerns such as diabetes and obesity. These health issues are increasing in children and adolescents at an alarming rate, and are very common in students with disabilities. By increasing physical activity, each individual is making progress toward a healthier body and improving their ability to function in everyday life.
Second, there are emotional and psychological benefits that come as a result of participating in physical activities and exercise regimens. While going through the demands of each day, stress builds up and can cause physical symptoms as well as behavioral outbursts. Exercise is a healthy way to manage stress levels and release the tension that accumulates. After completing an exercise session, chemicals called endorphins are released in the brain. These chemicals give a feeling of euphoria and satisfaction. Endorphins can be beneficial in combatting symptoms of depression and low mood. Another emotional benefit to participation is the increase in self-esteem. When individuals work hard, they feel a sense of accomplishment. This
sense of accomplishment works to improve their self-esteem and self-worth. The increase of self-esteem is an extremely valuable benefit as individuals with disabilities often struggle with acceptance and their view of themselves.
To read the rest of Tyler’s article, click here.
Tyler Salle
Shepherds College
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