People with blindness or low vision compete and participate in every possible sport. Sometimes the rules are modified, sometimes adaptive techniques are used, and other times adaptive equipment may be required.

General Tips for Participating in Sports

First, talk to your medical doctor and eye doctor before participating in any sport. Some eye conditions and medical conditions can be affected by athletic activity that includes bending, lifting, straining, or pulling.

Do some research about your area of interest. Some adaptive sports may be represented by national groups such as the U.S. Association of Blind Athletes (USABA) or similar associations.

Do some reading on your sport interest. Contact your local library or the National Library Service for books on tape and CD, in large print, and in braille.

Contact an athlete with vision loss and talk about adaptations that can be used in a particular sport. Your low vision specialist may be able to suggest a local group to contact.

See Sports Groups and Recreation, Sports, & Leisure Products for tips, answers to frequently-asked questions, and resources for sports and leisure equipment and activities.

Remember to be patient with yourself and have fun! Learning a sport, with or without vision loss, takes time, energy, and PRACTICE!