Adaptive skiing changes, or adapts, equipment or instruction to meet the needs of someone with a physical or developmental disability. At NSCD, for instance, specially trained instructors and an adaptive equipment lab can meet the needs of someone with almost any disability. Instruction is also better across the board now that ski instructors can become certified in teaching adaptive skiing. At NSCD, we see clients meet physical, emotional, social and cognitive goals by participating in adaptive sports. Our participants regularly tell us that their successes on the ski slopes have given them confidence to try other challenges in everyday life, such as going to college, starting a business or applying for a new job.
Adaptive skiing allows family members and friends to actively participate in a sport together.
Children and adults with disabilities also grow socially by interacting with people in an environment where disabilities are accepted and welcome. Some clients also notice physical improvements like increased balance, strength and flexibility. Overall fitness benefits from skiing include better muscle tone in the legs and trunk for standing skiers while sit-down skiers work their backs and arms. Alpine skiing also improves balance and reaction times. Remember, conditioning before you hit the slopes can help you adjust to the altitude of many ski areas as well as improve your skiing more quickly.