Adapted physical activity

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Tampere has many exercise groups for adults and children who need special support.

Adapted physical activity groups are suitable

  • people with a disability or functional limitation
  • people with a chronic or long-term illness
  • people with limited functional capacity

Exercise offers many benefits. It helps you stay healthy and functional. Your fitness improves, and you’ll have more energy. In exercise groups, you’ll get to meet others and find joy and refreshment.

Swimming groups for children with special needs

Swimming is a fun activity that’s suitable for many people.

There are two types of swimming groups for children with special needs. Fundamental swimming skills group is for those who cannot swim yet. Recreational groups are for those who can already swim.

In Fundamental swimming skills group, children get comfortable in the water. They learn to use various swimming aids and practice swimming. Everyone gets to practice at their own pace.

Instructors are present in the pool to teach and assist. You may also bring your own assistant.

Recreational group is intended for children with special needs who can already swim 25 meters without aids. In this group, participants learn and refine various swimming techniques.

A child with long hair is swimming in the pool while wearing goggles. The child has an arm injury.
There are two types of swimming groups for children with special needs. Fundamental swimming skills is for those who cannot swim. Recreational groups are for those who can already swim.

Adapted physical activity groups for adults

Tampere offers adapted exercise groups for adults who have difficulty participating in general exercise groups.

These exercise groups are for people with any of the following conditions or illnesses:

  • sensory impairment
  • respiratory disease
  • developmental disability
  • mental health issues
  • neurological disorders or diseases
  • osteoporosis
  • overweight (desire to lose weight)
  • rheumatism
  • heart disease
  • musculoskeletal disorders
  • disability

Physical activity and sports as a hobby

A mobility, sensory, or developmental disability does not usually prevent someone from participating in physical activity. There is a form of exercise suitable for almost everyone.

The Paraurheilu.fi website provides information for people with disabilities who are active or involved in sports. There you’ll find tips on different types of physical activities and the sports clubs that offer them. The site also provides information on various assistive devices for physical activity.

Pia Heinonen
Sports Instructor
Phone:
050 345 1072
Updated 14.7.2026