Creative ways to train and keep busy

Para-athletes around the world are being creative when finding ways to train and keep busy during the coronavirus pandemic.

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic represents an unprecedented situation which has affected the lives of millions of people around the world, including athletes, coaches, and committee staff.

The pandemic is still causing a global crisis and it is too early to say when restrictions may get lifted or not. Also, developments will differ from country to country.

Para-athletes are trying to remain patient and resilient during this time, It is a tough time to maintain physical and mental health and good nutrition.

Most athletes are currently having to adapt and find ways to cope with lockdown restrictions. Para athletes are remaining positive and leading the way in displaying the creative ways they can safely train and stay physically active at home.

Australia

Paralympian Col Pearse from Northern Victoria won a bronze medal in the S10 100m butterfly at the World Championships in London last year, He had his eyes set on a good performance in Tokyo.

Swimmer Col Pearse always joked about swimming in the dam at his family home but since the coronavirus social-distancing restrictions came into force the joke became a reality.

He stated that it functions well but does have its hazard with leeches, fish, and other little living creatures.

Ireland

Ellen Keane is a World & European Medallist Paralympian swimmer and insists the Paralympics won’t be past their sell-by date in 2021.

Making the most of the Covid-19 lockdown. The Irish swimmer is finishing her Culinary Entrepreneurship thesis and putting in plenty of practice outside the pool.

The fact that Ellen cannot get into a pool is frustrating, but she has purchased a bike and is able to cycle within the permitted radius or uses a Turbotrainer at home. She has been training since she was 13 so is now enjoying the break. Of course she is looking forward to getting back swimming when restrictions are lifted.

UK

Two para-athletes are playing important roles during the coronavirus pandemic. Taekwondo’s Matt Bush and Goalball’s Sarah Leiter, have been working tirelessly in their hometowns. They are both contributing to the fight against the pandemic.

Matt has exchanged training for Tokyo 2020 with helping combat the pandemic. He is working for his family business in Wales where he helps transport food supplies to local shops.

He has been working five days a week to make sure shelves are stocked.

Sarah Leiter is a junior doctor, as well as playing goalball for Great Britain, and the 29-year-old believes balancing her two passions helps her focus.

The 29-year-old had always been an active child but having struggled to engage in a mainstream sport due to her visual impairment. She was inspired to try a disabled sport after watching the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Sarah is a junior doctor at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, She admits her focus on the two passions in her life have forced her to make a number of sacrifices away from sport. Sarah is lucky to have the support of her family and friends and is determined to make the most of her potential.

Well done to these inspirational, resilient, and hardworking para-athletes.