Physical Disabilities & Visual Impairments

Jumpstart your morning with an invigorating swim in the warm waters of the 92 degree therapy pool. This program is for early risers who may have back pain, reduced range of motion, limited mobility, arthritis, a physical disability or anyone who would like the motivation and direction of a structured aquatic class. We will do low impact exercise and stretches to improve flexibility and muscle tone as well as some cardiovascular exercise to raise that heart rate. The goal of this class is to provide a motivating cardiovascular workout to help keep off those extra pounds.

This program is designed for individuals with a primary visual impairment or physical disability. (6 weeks)

Boccia can be played by individuals, pairs, or teams of three and all events are mixed gender. The program is designed for any individuals who have Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy or a spinal cord injury resulting in quadriplegia or other physical challenges that limit range of motion in the arms and hands. The aim of the game is to throw leather balls - colored red or blue as close as they can to a white target ball, or jack. The jack is thrown first, and then each side takes turns to propel their ball towards the jack. The balls can be moved with hands, feet, or, if the competitor’s disability is severe, with an assistive device such as a ramp. (11 weeks)

Goalball is a team sport designed for athletes with a primary visual impairment. Athletes compete in teams of three to throw or roll a ball with bells inside of it into the opponent’s goal. They must use the sound of the bell to judge the position and movement of the ball. Blindfolds are worn to allow partially sighted players to compete on an equal playing field as an athlete with a total visual impairment. (6 weeks)

This program is designed for individuals with a primary visual impairment or physical disability. Participants will work to improve their “personal bests” in weightlifting and will train for the bench press. (11 weeks)

Come learn basic swim skills in a small group lesson. This program is designed for individuals with a primary visual impairment or physical disability. The goal of the program is to create a fun-filled way to learn safety skills, gain confidence in and around the water, develop motor skills, and meet new friends while learning to swim. (6 weeks)

Eligible athletes must have either a visual impairment or a primary physical disability, and can be either ambulatory or use an assistive device. Track events range from a 60 meter to a 5000 meter race, and slalom racing and relays. Field events include the shot put, discus, softball, club, and javelin throws. (11 weeks)

Wheel your way into the fitness studio for an energetic hour of fun and fitness. This seated workout will help strengthen and tone your upper body. No chair, no problem! Even if you do not use a wheelchair, you are welcome to take a seat and partici¬pate in this low-impact workout! All you need to do is Sit and Get Fit! The goal of this program is to improve muscular strength, tone and flexibility, and increase weekly physical activity. (8 weeks)

The Fox Valley Support Group for individu¬als with visual impairments/blindness meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month depending on the availability of the group. The group changes the location regularly between the Prisco Community Center in Aurora, a local restaurant, or local recreation facility. The goal of the support group is to learn and gather support from one another, as well as to find out about resources concerning visual aids and other devices. (4 weeks)

Eligible athletes must have a primary physical disability, but can be either ambulatory or use an assistive device. (5 weeks)