Actors and Networks in APA in Finland

Adapted Physical Activity (APA) in Finland is developed and delivered through multi-level cooperation. Municipalities and NGOs are responsible for practical implementation, while national bodies, regional organizations, and various networks support, coordinate and guide the development work.

 

National-Level Coordination and Development

 

Ministry of Education and Culture

The Ministry provides financial and strategic support for APA, including project funding and grants for APA actors.

Finnish Society of Sport Sciences (FSSS)

The FSSS coordinates national APA collaboration and leads the APA Workgroup, which brings together actors from municipalities, research, NGOs, and ministries. The FSSS also organizes APA seminars and maintains terminology, recommendations, and communication tools.

Finnish Paralympic Committee

Supports the development of pathways from adapted physical activity to para sport and promotes accessible sport environments.

 

Local and Regional Delivery

 

Regional State Administrative Agencies

The Regional State Administrative Agencies supervise and support municipalities in social and health services, education, and promote legal compliance, including the accessibility and inclusion goals relevant to adapted physical activity.

Regional Sports Organizations

These 15 organizations offer training, consultation and coordination support to local APA actors. They ensure that national policies are interpreted and implemented regionally.

Municipalities and APA Instructors

Municipalities are the main providers of APA services. In larger municipalities, full-time APA instructors organize group activities, individual counseling, and networking with local clubs and healthcare professionals.

 

National Networks

 

APA Workgroup (since 2016)

Coordinated by the FSSS.
Members include municipal representatives, government experts, NGOs and researchers.
Focus areas: terminology, national recommendations, knowledge sharing and monitoring.

Municipal Instructor Network

Coordinated by the Finnish Paralympic Comittee.
Informal peer network among APA instructors.
Shares good practices, tools, and supports continuing professional development.

 

Other Key Partners

 

Research and Knowledge Base

Research on APA in Finland has focused on:

 

Summary

The Finnish APA system is based on long-term, cross-sectoral cooperation. National-level coordination, local implementation, peer networks and continuous knowledge-building ensure that adapted physical activity remains accessible, responsive and inclusive.

Adapted water exercise group at indoor pool

Picture: Maarit Hohteri, city of Helsinki