Adaptive Sports and Accessible Activities for People with Disabilities
"Strength isn't measured by what you can lift, but by the courage to keep moving forward — one adaptive step, one fearless try at a time."
At Aphasia Readers, we believe everyone—whether living with aphasia, recovering from a stroke, or navigating mobility or cognitive challenges—deserves access to an active, enriching life.
This guide, curated with the help of our inspiring friend Avi Golden, features top adaptive sports programs, inclusive events, and accessible recreation opportunities from across the U.S.
Avi, a former critical care and flight paramedic, experienced a life-changing stroke in 2007 that resulted in Broca’s aphasia. Since then, he has become a passionate advocate, raising awareness and helping others with disabilities discover new ways to stay active, engaged, and empowered.
1. National & Regional Events for People with Disabilities
Abilities Expo – New Jersey
📍 New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, Edison, NJ
🌐 abilitiesexpo.com
This free event connects people with disabilities to adaptive equipment, mobility aids, rehab tech, and inclusive sports demos. It’s a great place to try new tools and connect with the disability community.
No Barriers Summit
🌐 nobarriersusa.org/summit
This inspiring event brings together people of all abilities to conquer obstacles through adventure, innovation, and inclusion.
2. Adaptive Adventure Sports & Inclusive Thrills
Sky Combat Ace – Adaptive Flight Experience
🌐 skycombatace.com
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Fly alongside professional pilots in an immersive adaptive flight adventure.
Skydiving for People with Disabilities – The Ranch
🌐 skydivetheranch.com
Experience the thrill of tandem skydiving with trained professionals in a safe and inclusive environment.
Indoor Skydiving at iFly Westchester
🌐 iflyworld.com/westchester
A perfect intro to flight for people with various mobility levels. iFly is wheelchair accessible and great for beginners.
3. Adaptive Water Sports Programs
Underwater Torpedo League (UTL)
🌐 utlnation.com
This fast-paced underwater sport is inclusive and modifies training for all abilities, including stroke survivors and veterans.
Adaptive Scuba Diving – HSA NJ
📧 [email protected]
🌐 hsanjscuba.com
Dive into a new world! Certified instructors teach adaptive scuba diving for individuals with physical and cognitive impairments.
Adaptive Surfing – Life Rolls On Foundation
🌐 liferollson.org
Join free adaptive surfing events at beaches across the U.S. Surfing is made accessible with volunteers and specialized equipment.
Water Skiing – Leaps of Faith Water Skiers
📧 [email protected]
🌐 hannahz.webhost4life.com
Try adaptive water skiing with custom gear and supportive instructors.
4. Inclusive Land Sports & Recreation
Helen Hayes Hospital Adaptive Sports Center
🌐 helenhayeshospital.org
Contact: Matt Castelluccio – [email protected]
They offer an incredible range of adaptive land and water sports, including:
Adaptive Basketball at Newburgh YMCA
Accessible Fishing at Bear Mountain
GolfAbility Adaptive Golf Program
Kayaking, Rowing & Sailing on the Hudson
Yoga for People with Disabilities
Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Adaptive Softball
Snow Skiing at Belleayre Mountain
Each program includes adaptive gear, trained staff, and support for beginners.
5. Adaptive Climbing, Biking, and More
Adaptive Climbing Group
📧 [email protected]
🌐 adaptiveclimbinggroup.org
Indoor and outdoor rock climbing using adaptive harnesses and techniques for all skill levels.
Freedom Horse Farm – Therapeutic Riding
🌐 freedomhorsefarmllc.com
Boosts confidence and balance through horseback riding therapy.
Freedom’s Wings – Adaptive Glider Rides
🌐 freedomswings.org
Soar above the ground in a peaceful glider ride — accessible for wheelchair users and others with mobility needs.
Tandem Biking with Intandem
📧 [email protected]
🌐 intandembike.org
Ride a tandem bike with a trained captain — great for people with visual, cognitive, or mobility challenges.
Achilles International Queens Chapter
📧 [email protected]
🌐 achillesinternational.org
Join adaptive running and walking groups with trained guides in races and events.
6. Gardening & Nature Activities for All Abilities
In partnership with the Master Gardeners of Cornell Cooperative Extension, participants can explore:
Seated and raised-bed gardening
Adapted tools for limited dexterity or strength
Therapeutic benefits of gardening for aphasia and stroke recovery
7. Local Accessible Recreation in NYC
City Parks Foundation Adaptive Programs
🌐 cityparksfoundation.org
Offers inclusive outdoor activities, sports clinics, and nature exploration.
Wheeling Forward
📧 [email protected]
🌐 wheelingforward.org
Provides equipment, resources, and events for people with mobility impairments.
Why Adaptive Sports Matter
Participating in adaptive recreation can improve:
Physical health and mobility
Speech, memory, and attention in aphasia recovery
Confidence, social connection, and emotional well-being
Whether you’re interested in kayaking, adaptive yoga, or climbing a wall, there are adaptive activities near you to support your journey.
👉 Search your local area or check each organization’s site for registration dates, safety protocols, and accessibility features.
Stay Connected
Want more adaptive activity ideas? Follow @AphasiaReaders on Instagram and Facebook for weekly spotlights.
🟢 Tag us when you participate in an event!
#AphasiaAwareness #AdaptiveSports #StrokeRecovery #AccessibleAdventures #InclusiveRecreation #LifeWithoutLimits #AphasiaReaders
Whether you’re looking for adventure activities, adaptive fitness, or inclusive events near you, there’s something for everyone on this list.
For support, questions, or if you need a friend to talk to who just “gets it,” please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news from Aphasia Readers! If you haven’t picked up an Aphasia Readers book, order your copy HERE!
God Bless,
Anna Teal