Adaptive Climbing: Assessing the Needs for Program Development
Authors:
Fiona Kinmonth, OT/s, Meredith Grinnell, OT, OTD
Abstract:
Opportunities to participate in sports are correlated to improved physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Rock gyms are often not accessible to those with disabilities, limiting their access to participate in this sport. This project aims to assess the needs of adaptive climbers and of MetroRock Littleton to assist in developing a weekly adaptive climbing program. Methods include interviews with adaptive athletes, thematic analysis, a site assessment and recommendations, and a staff training. Results show that community and culture are the most important aspects to adaptive climbers when participating at a rock gym. The site assessment shows that parking and bathroom accessibility should be the first priority. Survey data shows that the staff training increased staff confidence in working with climbers with disabilities.
Key Words:
Adaptive sports, Rock climbing, Community