Adapted Table Tennis for Disabilities

In recent years, sports participation among individuals with disabilities has increased, driven by medical advancements, growing societal awareness, and improved accessibility. However, a significant proportion-about 60%-still do not engage in regular physical activity, often due to limited awareness and environmental barriers. Organizations like the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) have played a key role in promoting disability sports, as evidenced by the growth in Paralympic participation from 400 athletes in 1960 to an expected 4,400 in 2024. Physical activity offers both physical and psychological benefits for people with disabilities, including improved cardiovascular health, motor function, and emotional well-being. Although adapted table tennis is a promising, accessible sport for this population, research on its health effects remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a 12-week adapted table tennis program on the physical and mental health of individuals with disabilities and to explore its potential as a sustainable health-promotion strategy.