{"title":"Idealizing Inclusion: A Framework for Physical Literacy Development in Community-Based Adapted Physical Activity Programs.","authors":"Kyle Pushkarenko, Jeff R Crane, Jennifer Cowan","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2026-0006","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1123/apaq.2026-0006","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Physical literacy (PL) is increasingly positioned as a foundation for lifelong engagement in movement and physical activity, yet less is known about how it is enacted inclusively within disability-focused community contexts. This study explored how three Canadian community-based adapted physical activity organizations operationalized PL through inclusion-oriented practice. Guided by a Communities of Practice conceptual framework and an interpretive multiple case study design, data were generated through semistructured interviews and one practitioner focus group, alongside supplementary data sources such as field observations, organizational documents, photographs, and reflexive field notes. Fifty-one participants were involved across cases, including administrators, practitioners, program participants, and parents. Cross-case thematic analysis identified three interrelated pillars shaping inclusion-oriented PL practice: environmental compatibility, intentional programming, and ethical practice. Across cases, inclusion was not understood as a fixed property of a setting but as a relational and context-sensitive process requiring ongoing adaptation of environments, pedagogies, and organizational cultures in response to participant needs, aspirations, and embodied ways of moving. The findings offer a cross-case framework of idealizations for community-based adapted physical activity programming and clarify how PL can be advanced in disability-focused contexts without reducing inclusion to access alone, accommodation alone, or normative expectations of movement competence.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"1-10"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148883324","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Erratum. A Qualitative Exploration of the Mentoring and Learning Experiences of Special Olympics Canada Coaches.","authors":"","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2026-0039","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2026-0039","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"196"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-03-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147470662","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Danielle Alexander-Urquhart, Gordon A Bloom, Bettina Callary
{"title":"A Qualitative Exploration of the Mentoring and Learning Experiences of Special Olympics Canada Coaches.","authors":"Danielle Alexander-Urquhart, Gordon A Bloom, Bettina Callary","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0081","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0081","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The purpose of this study was to explore the learning and mentoring experiences of Canadian Special Olympics coaches. Data were collected using semistructured individual interviews with eight Special Olympics coaches of varying levels of experience, sport type, and geographic locations across Canada. Using a reflexive thematic analysis, we found that coaches used a variety of formal, nonformal, and informal learning opportunities to develop and refine their coaching practices and particularly desired an opportunity to learn experientially and in a practical, hands-on manner. All coaches had experience with mentorship, either provided or received, and felt that opportunities for formal mentorship, such as exposure to national and international Games, would allow coaches to acquire the confidence, motivation, and knowledge needed to provide high-quality coaching to their athletes. Recommendations are identified to refine and improve the quality of coach education available to Special Olympics coaches, not only within Canada, but around the world.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"160-169"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-03-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147358469","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Alfonso Gutiérrez-Santiago, Manuel Alberto González-Harcevnicow, Xiana Pérez-Ogando, Iván Prieto-Lage
{"title":"Temporal Structure of Para Judo Combat: Influence of the New Sport Classes and Weight Categories in Elite Male Athletes.","authors":"Alfonso Gutiérrez-Santiago, Manuel Alberto González-Harcevnicow, Xiana Pérez-Ogando, Iván Prieto-Lage","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0120","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0120","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The aim was to analyze the impact of recent Para Judo rule modifications on the temporal structure of combat in elite male judo athletes with visual impairment, considering new sport classes (J1, J2) and weight categories. An observational study analyzed 205 matches from the 2022 International Blind Sports Federation Judo World Championships using the Observed Temporal System for Judo Combat v.2 instrument. Significant differences emerged between sport classes: J1 combats were less fragmented, with longer pauses, groundwork, displacement, and gripping times poststoppage. J2 combats were more fragmented, involving shorter, dynamic sequences. Heavier Para Judo athletes (-90 kg, +90 kg) showed longer standing sequences, pauses, and gripping durations, indicating deliberate recovery strategies. Across all weights, J1 Para Judo athletes experienced longer pauses, reflecting greater temporal demands from total blindness. Results validate the competitive separation of J1 and J2 and emphasize tailored training strategies according to sport class and weight category. Specific temporal structure models support individualized Para Judo training planning.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"147-159"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147328803","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Emma V Richardson, Christopher Bright, Daniel Farrow, Hilary Nathan
{"title":"Physical Activity Experiences of People With Type 1 Diabetes Across the Life Course.","authors":"Emma V Richardson, Christopher Bright, Daniel Farrow, Hilary Nathan","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0111","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0111","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study offers novel and significant insights to advance understanding, practice, and policy regarding physical activity (PA) across the lifespan among individuals with Type 1 diabetes in the United Kingdom. Utilizing both medicalized and sociocultural lenses, we aimed to (a) examine the PA experiences of people with Type 1 diabetes and (b) explore the meanings of PA across the life course. The qualitative testimonies of a 311 participants aged 3-75 were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis across age-based case studies. We identified why PA becomes meaningful at particular life stages and how experiences are shaped by intersections of technology use, social attitudes, health care transitions, body image, and identity. Participants of all ages described navigating stigma, institutional misunderstanding, and internalized ableism, often heightened with age. We conclude that the Type 1 diabetes community remains underserved by current approaches and call for targeted policy, practitioner training, and lifespan-oriented research that fosters inclusive and empowering PA opportunities.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"170-179"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-02-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146121648","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Physical Literacy and Lifespan Transitions: Retrospectively Exploring the Adolescent-to-Adult Journeys of Individuals With Intellectual Disabilities.","authors":"Jennifer Cowan, Kyle Pushkarenko","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2024-0126","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2024-0126","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>To date, research on physical literacy (PL) has primarily focused on fostering development in early childhood. While this early stage is crucial for lifelong engagement, other significant transitions, such as the shift from adolescence to adulthood, have been less thoroughly investigated. This study delved into the experiences and perceived PL journeys of young adults within their transition from adolescence to adulthood, specifically those with intellectual disabilities. Utilizing the COM-B model of behavior change (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behavior) as a conceptual framework and an interpretive phenomenological analysis methodology, semistructured interviews were conducted with five young adults age 20-26 years. The analysis identified three themes: shaping perspectives and action, a team-based approach, and exploring opportunities everywhere. Despite encountering barriers during this vulnerable period, participants exhibited resiliency and a proactive attitude toward their PL journeys. Findings underscored the necessity of support and interventions to facilitate continued growth in PL as individuals with intellectual disabilities transition into adulthood.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"137-146"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146032656","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Janet A Lawson, Gwen Binsfield, Lorette Dupuis, Erin Latimer, Nancy Quinn, Darda Sales, Jessica Tinney, Amy E Latimer-Cheung
{"title":"Developing Evidence-Informed Recommendations for the Management of Parasport Classification Using the AGREE II Instrument.","authors":"Janet A Lawson, Gwen Binsfield, Lorette Dupuis, Erin Latimer, Nancy Quinn, Darda Sales, Jessica Tinney, Amy E Latimer-Cheung","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2024-0155","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2024-0155","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Sport administrators hold responsibility for implementing and managing parasport classification systems within national sport federations, yet they have called for guidance on how best to learn about and manage classification. This paper describes a consensus-based process, informed by the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II instrument of developing novel, evidence-informed recommendations for the management of classification by national sport federations. A consensus panel (N = 8) reviewed extant research on classification, shared first-hand knowledge and expert opinion of the subject, and formulated the recommendations. Seven recommendations resulted, each accompanied by specifics such as who, how, and when to implement them. External knowledge users (N = 37) provided additional feedback on the draft recommendations. These recommendations serve to advance the systematic management of classification across Canadian national sport federations. Additionally, this work provides guidance on how to utilize the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II Instrument when collaborating with parasport practitioners, thus bridging the gap between knowledge creation and implementation.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"102-115"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-12-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145696539","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Effectiveness of an e-Learning Program for Educating Physical Activity Professionals on Supporting Autistic Individuals in Physical Activity.","authors":"Jasmin Ezaddoustdar, Lauren Tristani, Tobi McEvenue, Rebecca Bassett-Gunter","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0024","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0024","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Physical activity (PA) benefits autistic1 individuals, yet barriers including limited support from PA professionals hinder PA engagement. Guided by the theory of planned behavior and the diffusion of innovations theory, this study used a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design to investigate the effectiveness and practicality of an e-learning program in changing PA professionals' intention and confidence to support autistic individuals in PA. PA professionals (N = 49) completed the Strong Minds Through Active Bodies e-learning program, as well as pre- and postevaluations. Results showed significant improvements in all theory of planned behavior constructs and positive feedback on the module's practicality. Tailored e-learning can enhance PA professionals' understanding and confidence in meeting the unique needs and preferences of autistic individuals in PA. Further research is warranted to understand how e-learning may be leveraged as a tool to foster more inclusive programs, ultimately encouraging greater participation by creating accessible and engaging PA environments that are supportive and conducive to active engagement for autistic individuals.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"116-124"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-12-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145679959","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lindsay E Ball, Justin A Haegele, Xihe Zhu, Ruth Osorio
{"title":"Examining Belonging Experienced by Blind and Visually Impaired Women in Physical Activity Spaces.","authors":"Lindsay E Ball, Justin A Haegele, Xihe Zhu, Ruth Osorio","doi":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0005","DOIUrl":"10.1123/apaq.2025-0005","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The purpose of this study was to examine the subjective feelings of belonging for blind and visually impaired women when participating in exercise, physical activity, and/or sport. To do this, an experiential qualitative research approach was used. Ten blind or visually impaired women age 27-45 years served as participants and completed two one-on-one audio-recorded semistructured interviews. A reflexive thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the interview data, from which three themes were constructed: (a) \"When you get there, and people welcome you\": Feeling welcomed to join spaces, (b) \"Feeling like I can contribute and I'm valuable\": Feeling accepted within those spaces, and (c) \"Having the opportunity...\": Building community that extends beyond spaces. Participants described instances of belonging in physical activity spaces where they were welcomed, felt accepted and valued, and were able to develop long-lasting friendships.</p>","PeriodicalId":520545,"journal":{"name":"Adapted physical activity quarterly : APAQ","volume":" ","pages":"93-101"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-11-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145566510","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}