The Adapted Sport and Physical Activity Research Group brings together research, eduation and community engagement to improve opportunities for physical activity, sport participation and health outcomes for people with disability and those living with complex health conditions.
Based within the School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences at The University of Queensland, the group connects world-class expertise in physical activity, rehabilitation, disability sport, and inclusive program design with practical, community-facing initiatives that support participation across the lifespan.
Through a range of programs delivered in partnership with community organisations, health professionals, families and sport providers, the group works to create accessible pathways into physial activity and sport while also generating evidence to inform better practice and policy.
Our work combines research, training and service delivery to support inclusive participation and improve physical, social and health outcomes.
Programs delivered through the group provide meaningul opportunites for individuals to build skills, confidence and physical capacity while also contributing to new knowledge in disability sport, physical activity promotion and rehabiliation.
The Adapted Sport and Physical Activity Training Program is the first initiative in Australia dedicated to training and assessing athletes with high-support-needs disabilities.
This integrated approach creates a unique environment to explore practical research questions, including the therapeutic benefits of sport for individuals with severe impairments and high support needs.
The Motor Active Kids Program is best suited for children who have difficulty moving and playing in a controlled and coordinated manner, including:
- Children with motor control and developmental difficulties
- Children with physical and learning disabilities
- Children with developmental and coordination disorders
- Children with confidence and motivational problems
Adapted Strength and Fitness Program
The Adapted Strength and Fitness Program (ASFP) is an individually tailored functional fitness program designed for individuals with diverse abilities and impairments.
The goal of ASFP is to promote physical development, confidence and wellbeing in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Adapted Physical Activity Program
The Adapted Physical Activity Program (APAP) is an evidence-based physical activity promotion service for people with chronic and complex physical and mental health conditions.
APAP aims to empower clients to improve their functional outcomes, mental health and/or social re-entry by giving them the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to commence and maintain a physically active lifestyle.
Leadership
A globally recognised leader in disability sport and rehabilitation, Professor Tweedy's research focuses on enabling people with disabilities to pursue their goals through safe and effective participation in sport and physical activity.
Beyond his academic role, Professor Tweedy serves as a scientific adviser to World Para Athletics and leads research for the International Paralympic Committee Classification Research and Development.
Our team
FInd out more about the team at the Health and Wellbeing Centre for Research Innovation.
Thank you for considering a donation to the A-START program
Your gift will help A-START athletes get professional training to qualify for the Paralympic Games while enabling research into the therapeutic benefits of sports training for people with high support needs.