Adapted Physical Activity

The term adapted physical activity (APA) refers to a field of research, theory and practice associated with various forms of movement and physical activity most often related to disability and impairment. In this entry, we explore the field of APA. In doing so, we also examine a select number of key topics, some of which have been part of APA since even before its inception, and others, while not new, are gaining momentum and providing important opportunities to rethink and reflect on the direction(s) the field has taken and may take in the future. Specifically, we discuss: 1. Understandings of APA, 2. Development of Adapted Physical Activity and Disability, 3. The Meaning of Adapted, 4. Service delivery, and 5. Theoretical Approaches and Research Paradigms.