Harnessing innovation to advance adaptive and para sport

Adaptive and para sports have emerged as a powerful medium, giving para athletes a platform for empowerment, rehabilitation and social inclusion.1 As we increasingly appreciate their transformative impact, it is important to explore future directions in the field and incentivise innovation. While elite para sports may receive broader attention, at a recreational level, adaptive sports significantly aid in managing chronic conditions and enhancing functional independence for people living with disabilities.1 Furthermore, they can improve mental health, promoting a stronger sense of identity, purpose, social connections and supportive communities; enhance self-esteem and increase the likelihood of employment.1–3 Despite the clear benefits and expansion of adaptive and para sports, barriers such as inaccessible facilities, equipment and transportation persist.1 4 Additionally, our perception as young clinicians is that medical education and training continue to under-represent topics on sport and people living with disabilities, with gaps in the curricula, course content, exercise prescription and research opportunities.1 2 Technological advancements have transformed adaptive sports, offering new opportunities for para athletes to push performance boundaries. Specialised prostheses, wheelchairs, wearables and assistive devices have transformed not only competition but also participation, enhancing both elite-level achievements and safety for athletes across all levels through improved movement efficiency. ### Smart wearable devices Originally designed for able-bodied athletes, these are increasingly benefiting para athletes, despite the need for adaptations to address mobility and energy expenditure differences. While research has grown, gaps remain in accurately measuring para athletes’ performance and equipment effectiveness. Existing studies offer insights …