Adaptive Sports Physical Specialist
Advance inclusive performance with the Adaptive Sports & Conditioning Specialist certification. Learn disability-aware assessment, risk screening, and classification; tailor strength, power, endurance, and mobility programs; use sport-specific modifications with wheelchairs, prosthetics, and assistive tech; and progress safely with evidence-based loading, cueing, and return-to-play. You’ll coordinate with caregivers and clinicians, build confidence, and translate goals into measurable gains with validated testing and reliable metrics for athletes across physical, cognitive, and sensory needs—at school, in the community, and in competition.
Course Goals
- Analyze how physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities alter mechanics, energy cost, and fatigue.
- Implement evidence-based screening, risk management, and sport classification to ensure safe participation.
- Design adaptive strength, power, endurance, and mobility progressions using wheelchairs, prosthetics, and assistive tech.
- Communicate effectively with athletes and support teams; tailor cues for sensory/cognitive needs.
- Use validated tests and metrics to track progress and guide return-to-play decisions.
Learning Objectives
- Explain foundational principles of adaptive sport, including disability types, participation models, and current evidence.
- Distinguish sport classification vs. medical diagnosis and apply basic class rules to training choices.
- Identify contraindications and screening needs; select safe assessments (e.g., RPE, submax tests, functional field tests).
- Design progressions for strength, power, endurance, and mobility using wheelchairs, prosthetics, and other assistive devices.
- Track outcomes and readiness with validated metrics; adjust load, cues, and return-to-play plans for physical, cognitive, and sensory needs.
Skills Gained
- Conduct disability-aware screening and risk checks.
- Apply basic sport classification to guide training choices.
- Modify strength, power, endurance, and mobility using assistive devices.
- Coach effective cues and communication for sensory/cognitive needs.
- Measure progress with functional tests and adjust programming/return-to-play.
Course Essentials & Requirements
Course Package Includes:
- Comprehensive Textbook
- Study Guide
- 100-question multiple-choice, open-book certification exam
- Certificate upon obtaining a passing exam score
Recommended Prerequisites:
- CPR/First Aid Certification are highly recommended although not required.
- Personal Trainer Certification is also encouraged to enhance your learning.
Course & Delivery Options:
E-book and E-course
Your e-book will arrive via email within 48 business hours and you will have immediate access to the Study Guide and exam in your IFPA Account.
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Duration:
This course must be completed within six months from your registration date.
Extensions:
Extensions for an additional three months are available for purchase on the Special Services page.
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