Documents 

This study aims at conceiving a strategic training and reference assessment system concerning the balance component, according to the diverse Special Olympics gymnasts’ potential. The experimental group includes 24 beginner gymnasts, within level A and level I.
Due to our practical experience and statistical confirmations, we believe that the mentioned evaluation system should comprise three general tests (Romberg Matorin, Unipodal test,), a specific test (the level A beam routine) and three reference technical tests (three side rolls towards left and three towards right with a stand lifting, maintained sat set square - execution, held side balance time-trial). Also, a specific adapted instructional content has been developed, so that this motor capacity should improve in a significant manner.[author summary]

Our involvement in the lives of disabled children brings huge benefits to all involved. We felt that conducting specifically artistic gymnastics, would lead to the formation of new motor skills in disabled children, which could then be asserted at a competition level.

During the 2010-2011, a team of teachers and volunteers launched the project “Gymnastics for all” with a group of disabled children. Through participation at the two competitions, the motor control of each individual are greatly improved, in an extremely demanding competition environment.The participation of the volunteers is of great importance.

In this document we provide a “broad-strokes” review of current evidence (i.e., research publishedin peer-reviewed academic journals) about the relationships between physical activity, recreation, leisure and sport and mental health and well-being for the following groups: children and youth, families and communities, adults and older adults, and persons living with mental illness or addictions.

While the benefits of participation are abundant there are also risks associated with some forms of free time activities that can negatively impact people’s mental health and well-being. In addition to reviewing evidence of mental health-related benefits and risks are some examples of programs or interventions that have been designed to promote (or reduce the risks to) good mental health and to treat mental illness and addictions. understanding these risks and developing programs and supports to address them is essential to a mental health and addictions strategy for Nova Scotia. [author summary]