Adaptive Paddling

Adapting your current paddling program is a lot easier then you think. Here are a couple of small ideas that you can use to help different people with disabilities.

Adapting your current paddling program is a lot easier then you think. Here are a couple of small ideas that you can use to help different people with disabilities. Standard paddles can be easily adapted for paddlers with single-arm amputation or for the individual with hemiplegia due to a stroke or cerebral palsy. My-Grip® can assist paddlers with visual impairments in learning the proper grip and hand placement on the paddle. For individuals with impaired grip, four pieces of bike tubing can be assembled with pull-ties and electrical tape to create an adapted hand grip. Proper fit and comfort are essential because water increases the breakdown of skin and can lead to an increased risk of pressure sores. For a snug fit into the kayak, closed-cell foam and adaptive seating systems may be used for increased contact with the boat. VersaForm T pillows may be used to create a backrest or seat cushion for increased contact with the kayak and comfort for the participant. When the air is pumped out, the pillow conforms to an individual's body. Source: ncpad.org