Winter is right around the corner, but colder temperatures have already descended on much of the country. While some people shy away from the cold, others have been waiting all year to get out and enjoy their favorite adaptive winter sports.

Have you been wanting to try out some cold weather recreation? Below are some fun options for the Cure Nation!

The pictures below, and their stories, are courtesy of the 2018 Wheels UP! Photo Contest hosted by SPORTS ‘N SPOKES magazine, Cure Medical, Abilities Expo and the Spina Bifida Association. Enjoy!

This photo was taken in Winter Park, CO on March 9, 2017. It is a photo of me (Wesley Becker) and my wife (Lindsey Becker) posed at the top of our first run of the weekend.

Wesley Becker says, “This photo was taken in Winter Park, CO on March 9, 2017. It is a photo of me (Wesley Becker) and my wife (Lindsey Becker) posed at the top of our first run of the weekend.”

Snow Skiing

In this day and age, people with limited mobility have a variety of options when it comes to snow skiing. People who use wheelchairs can grab a sit ski, which gives them the ability to participate in alpine, or downhill skiing, as well as cross country, where skiers use poles to propel themselves through the snow. If you’re worried about getting cold, it’s all in the gear! As long as you have the proper attire, your activity while skiing is sure to bring up the body heat and keep you warm!

it’s common for adaptive athletes to use a cross country sit ski to increase their physical conditioning? Give it a try for a fun workout!

Margaret Deery says, “This picture is of John Waddick and I adaptive skiing in Beech Mountain, NC.”

Ice Hockey

Adaptive ice hockey, also known as sled or sledge hockey, first debuted as an official event in the 1994 Winter Olympic Games. Since then, it has become a popular paralympic sport, as well as a fun recreational activity for people around the globe who have limited mobility.

Bryson at Charleston Sled Hockey Practice, Charleston, WV.

Sled hockey is played on a small, single-ski sled with poles that are used both to race along the ice and hit the puck. And like traditional hockey, it’s full contact! In most cities, there are local programs available for beginners and those interested in joining a team.

Four-Wheeling and Snow Mobiling

Whether the winter where you live involves snow or just colder temperatures, there are off-road vehicles that will give you the freedom to get off the beaten path. If you don’t have access to a four-wheeler or snow mobile, try searching for a rental company in your area.

Mark Frahn says, “I’m a L1 Incomplete SCI from racing motocross. I’m kinda slow on my wheelchair, but when I transfer to my “motorized” wheelchair, you’d never know I’m paralyzed. This is me riding my z400, paralyzed. A huge thank you to all the adaptive athletes who inspire me and push me to the limits.”

For more adaptive sport options, check out Disabled Sports USA.

Get Outside: Explore Adaptive Winter Sports

If you’re not ready to play a sport, but you still see the value of physical activity and staying active during the colder months, try simply making a point to get outside! Head to a national or state park and soak up some of the wonders that nature has to offer.

Nicholette Peoples says, “They say not to chase waterfalls but I prefer to try the impossible. Exploring nature is my passion.”

Did you know that if you have a permanent disability, you’re eligible for a free, lifetime membership to U.S. national parks? Learn more here or inquire at the gate on your next trip to a national park!

Be Prepared

It’s important to remember, especially those with poor circulation, to stay warm when in colder temperatures for extended periods of time. It helps to use layers, and keep extremities, neck and head warm. Portable heating pads or warm water bottles can help, too!

When you’re playing sports or out adventuring, an accessible bathroom may be hard to come by at times, so the Cure M14XL catheter is a great option to also keep on hand.It’s extra long, at 25 inches, and can help eliminate the need for extension tubing or transfers in a public restroom. Plus, Cure catheters are not made with scary chemicals like DEHP, DINP, BPA or NR-latex.

To request free samples of the Cure Medical® Extra Long Pocket Catheter or any Cure Medical catheter, contact your local distributor of quality healthcare products, or click here.

Enjoy Our Free Resources & Articles

CURE NATION is designed with you in mind, to offer assistance and education when you need it through a personal support program.

All of the information you find below and on our related social media pages is meant to guide you to places, topics and resources that enhance your life, while also connecting you with a growing group of friends.