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First Involvement

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First involvement in sport & recreation

A Positive First Experience

First involvement means ensuring that all participants have a positive first experience when trying an activity for the first time.

The first time Jackie went to a yoga class the instructor wouldn’t make eye contact and avoided talking to her one-to-one. She didn’t go back to yoga for over ten years!

‘I felt like I was an intrusion, and even the thought of that is enough to put people off. Luckily I have now found better people, but it took a long time for me to pluck up the courage to try again.’

Contrast Jackie’s experience with the case study below. Which would you rather be a part of?

Case study: what is an accessible yoga class?

  • Everyone is welcome to join.
  • Everyone is invited to participate in all practices.
  • Variations are offered at many levels.
  • Positive focus on abilities not disabilities.
  • All students are given equal praise, support and attention.
  • Touch is optional.
  • Language is sensitive and positive.
  • Focus is on the essence of yoga – connecting with inner peace.
  • Goal is individual empowerment and community building.
  • Financially accessible – affordable or scholarships.
  • Effort to reach underserved communities.
  • Accessible location.
  • Teacher is focused on service and love.

Coaches, reception staff and instructors all play a role in ensuring people feel welcome. New participants may feel awkward, afraid, lacking in confidence or aware that their presence creates a need for adaptations.

Now, Adaptive or Accessible yoga has gained momentum through strong advocacy.

“It is often the people who need sport and recreation most who have the most trouble accessing it.”

This infographic was created by Recreation Integration Victoria through funding provided by the Victoria Foundation. The Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability is grateful for the permission to share this information.