Summary: Recommendations for the Development of APA and Para Sport 2023-2026
These national recommendations provide strategic guidelines for advancing adapted physical activity (APA) and para sport in Finland. The focus is on improving accessibility, inclusion, competence, service structures, and cooperation across sectors. Rooted in long-term national efforts and legislation promoting equality, the recommendations support the participation and wellbeing of people with disabilities and functional limitations. They are intended for professionals, policymakers, organizations, and all actors working to develop inclusive physical activity and sport services.
1. Introduction & Objectives
The recommendations build on earlier strategies and aim to strengthen adapted physical activity (APA) and para sport services in Finland. Their primary objectives are to broaden participation, enhance service accessibility, and foster collaboration among municipalities, organizations, sports federations, and other stakeholders.
2. Background & Context
APA and para sport have a long history in Finland, supported by legal frameworks that promote equality and non-discrimination. Despite progress, uneven availability and limited visibility of services persist across different population groups and geographical areas.
3. Strategic Focus Areas
Efforts are concentrated on five interrelated development areas:
3.1 Accessibility & Inclusion
- Ensure physical and social accessibility in facilities and programs.
- Apply universal design principles in infrastructure and services.
- Serve individuals with varying functional limitations, chronic illnesses, and disabilities.
3.2 Competence & Training
- Expand and improve training for APA instructors, coaches, and professionals across sectors.
- Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration in service delivery.
- Offer continuous professional development.
3.3 Service Structures & Cooperation
- Promote cooperation among municipalities, regional sports organizations, disability NGOs, and others.
- Integrate APA and para sport into broader social and health services.
- Provide clear guidelines to support local implementation.
3.4 Research & Development
- Facilitate applied research on APA and para sport interventions.
- Share findings with practitioners and policy-makers.
- Monitor participation levels and outcomes to inform decisions.
3.5 Awareness & Advocacy
- Increase public and professional awareness of APA and para sport services.
- Promote inclusive attitudes and participation.
- Involve media, schools, and communities in advocacy efforts.
4. Implementation, Resources & Funding
- The Finnish Society of Sport Sciences (FSSS) is responsible for coordination.
- Implementation is supported by regular reporting, stakeholder feedback, and use of performance indicators.
- Active participation from municipalities, regional bodies, NGOs and researchers is essential for success.
- Secure stable funding from public authorities and supplement through partnerships and grants.
- Allocate resources for training, facilities, equipment, and research aligned with strategic focus areas.
Conclusion
The 2023–2026 recommendations represent a coordinated and long-term approach to improving APA and para sport in Finland. They provide a structured roadmap to enhance accessibility, build professional competence, support evidence-based action, and strengthen partnerships—all aimed at fostering inclusive physical activity for people with diverse functional capacities.