PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GUIDELINES
for Adults with Spinal Cord Injury

"As a physical education graduate from UBC and someone who has participated in some form of exercise/fitness for more than 37 years since my injury, I highly recommend the "Guidelines" ... my commitment to a healthy lifestyle has helped me maintain a positive attitude, high energy and optimal wellness, allowing me to lead a full and productive life. I hope these Guidelines inspire and enable many people with SCI to maintain their health and live life to its fullest." - Rick Hansen

Rick Hansen Institute

"The Sam Sullivan Disability Foundation and its affiliated societies – such as the Tetra Society of North America and the Disabled Sailing Association – were established with one principle in mind: People who are more active and independent are healthier, more complete citizens.

Sam believed strongly in this concept when he founded these organizations and several others that offer people with disabilities opportunities to participate more fully in the community.

The same principle, I believe, applies to the work that SCI Action Canada is doing and certainly applies to the new "Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with Spinal Cord Injury." That is: more active people are healthier people."

Duane Geddes
Executive Director
Sam Sullivan Disability Foundation

"I can't tell you how nice it is to back up my physical activity recommendations with the new guidelines. Research that can be immediately used in clinical practice is such a welcome gift!"

Jennifer Dehoney
Physiotherapist
Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

"The Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults with SCI are a great resource for someone looking to improve their general health and fitness. Often enough our Para-Athletics Coaches are approached by individuals who have hopes and dreams that vary from simply being healthier to wanting to win a medal at the Paralympic games, they all need to start somewhere and these guidelines are a great resource to help move their dreams forward. In integrating someone into an ongoing program, these guidelines are also useful within the coaching community to build comfort around the baseline health and fitness needs of someone with SCI."

David Greig
National Coach, Talent Development, Para-Athletics /Athletics Canada

About SCI Action Canada

Based at McMaster University, SCI Action Canada is an ongoing, collaborative endeavour bringing together university-based researchers, knowledge mobilization specialists, support networks, service groups and community members focused on advancing physical activity, knowledge and participation among Canadians living with spinal cord injury.