Sport-Based Therapeutic Recreation: Perceived Outcomes and Implications for Research

Authors

  • Bobby Delaney Spaulding Rehabilitation Network
  • David Crandell Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
  • J. P. Barfield Radford University

Keywords:

active recreation, disability, research

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to examine the perceived improvement on fitness, self-confidence, and mood among participants in a sport-based therapeutic recreation program. The program was administered by a rehabilitation hospital and participants consisted of inpatients, outpatients, and community members with a variety of physical disabilities, including cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. As part of an internal program evaluation, we assessed perceived improvement on flexibility, muscular strength, muscular endurance, balance, self-confidence, and mood. Participants reported improvement on all variables regardless of age, gender, or hospital status (e.g., inpatient). The current findings warrant future empirical research on actual fitness and affective changes that result from noncompetitive sport-based programming. 

Issue

Section

Research Application