The power of Track

April 6, 2026

Jessica Bentley 

Dr. Sowers

The power of Track

Participating in all kinds of sports can offer an individual powerful advantages which can impact physical health

and mental well being. A track athlete can benefit physically by building cardiovascular health, muscle strength,

endurance, and gaining coordination.  Running, sprinting, field events, and wheelchair racing strengthens the

heart and lungs while promoting overall fitness in the body. According to the CDC regular physical activity reduces

the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Track is a very versatile sport because it is

very easily adapted to different levels of people's ability levels. Track is an inclusive and accessible sport. 

Track can also provide an individual with mental growth and development as well as provide physical activity.

It can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety by releasing endorphins that will improve mood and energy levels.

In addition, participating in sports helps to build confidence, develop goal setting skills, and boost confidence.

Athletes often experience a strong sense of accomplishment when they improve their times/distances in track and

field.  For athletes that may have a disability the mental benefits that can be even more impactful. Sports can

provide a sense of independence and empowerment!

Adaptive Track And Field Competitive ...

If I had a friend or knew someone who had a disability who was hesitant to try a sport, I would without a doubt

reassure them that adaptive track was made to meet their needs. I would explain to them that they don't need to be

insanely athletic or experienced to start.  The only thing that matters at track is trying something new in a supported

environment. Adaptive sports organizations, such as those highlighted by the Paralympic Movement, emphasize

inclusion, community, and personal growth rather than competition alone.

I would encourage anyone with a disability to try all different types of track events. Wheelchair racing, seated

throwing events, guided running for visually impaired athletes, or even short distance sprints are all adaptive track

events. Wheelchair racing and seated throwing events are great options because these events help to build upper

body strength while allowing athletes to compete at all different types of levels. Guided running is a great idea for

those that are visually impaired. It helps to engage in teamwork and trust while still providing the thrill of a race.

Even casually walking or jogging on a track can be a great starting point for athletes to gain confidence and start to build stamina. 

                                            Sports Are A Civil Right For Disabled ...

Track and field is more than just a sport, it is an opportunity to grow physically mentally and socially. By providing

adaptive track people for athletes with disabilities a whole new world of sports competition is provided.  Athletes

would gain confidence, improve health, and become part of a community that not only celebrates being the best but

also applauds and acknowledges effort and personal progression.


References

https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2013/01/25/school-sports-disabilities

https://dasasports.org/sports-and-fitness/competitive-teams/track-and-field/

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm

https://www.paralympic.org/feature/benefits-sport-people-disabilities

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