The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Lifestyle Sports for Disabled People: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background
 
 There is growing evidence to suggest the physical and mental health benefits of lifestyle sports (LS) in disabled people. However, disabled people are less likely to participate in sports than those without disabilities and the evidence base is sporadic. 
 
 Objectives
 
 This scoping review explores the range and quality of the evidence base to determine what, if any, physical and mental health benefits are attached to disabled people participating in lifestyle sports. 
 
 Methods
 
 Eligible studies consisted of participants participating in LS with a physical, intellectual, mental or sensory disability and included both adults and children. Descriptive, thematic and quality assessment techniques were used to provide a comprehensive summary of all evidence. 
 
 Results
 
 We identified 57 studies, across seven different sports, with numerous physical and mental health benefits to disabled people, including improved strength, fitness and balance as well as confidence, self-esteem and overall psychological wellbeing. Key emergent themes were that participation in LS promoted the development of social skills and building of community.
 
 Conclusions
 
 Our scoping review was the first to explore this field of research, revealing a unanimously positive association between lifestyle sports and physical and mental health. Future research could focus on understanding the relationship and mechanisms between the sport, being in nature, or participating as part of a group that creates health benefits; and identifying appropriate duration, intensity and quantity of participation needed for long-term improvements.

Gender Differences in Psychological Outcomes Following Surf versus Hike Therapy among U.S. Service Members

“…Although this study demonstrated gender differences in several outcomes, particularly for the immediate benefits of surf and hike therapies, it is important to emphasize the lack of gender differences in many outcomes, especially regarding long-term benefits. This may speak to the psychological benefits of surf and hike therapies across a variety of different populations [63,64], including those with different psychological conditions [65][66][67]. These findings point to the global and transdiagnostic benefits of surf and hike therapies; these interventions may elicit broad psychological benefits that are not specific to a particular symptom, condition, or group.…”