More training options for Special Olympics athletes
A weekly exercise class in the Battlefords is providing a space for competitive and non-competitive special needs athletes to come together for a cardio workout and encourage healthy living.
Vidette Engelbrecht’s class at Snap Fitness includes workouts from step aerobics to distance training to yoga moves for balance and strength. There are usually between seven and 12 athletes who participate, including Engelbrecht’s daughter Frances.
“The reason why I started the fitness program is because there were lots of athletes who couldn’t participate in sport and I always feel that our biggest need for people with special needs is to be physically active,” she said. “The big reason is if they’re not physically active, with that comes mental and health problems as well.”
The class is part of Special Olympics Battlefords’ programming, along with a swim club and bowling, and Snap Fitness donates the space for the class. The Battlefords chapter of Special Olympics Saskatchewan was only started a few years ago. Before the chapter opened, athletes had to go to other towns and cities to participate in specialized programs.