Amputee sports offer an exciting world of opportunities to stay active, challenge yourself, and discover new passions. Whether you’re looking to regain your strength, improve your mental well-being, or simply have fun, there’s a sport out there for you.

Keep reading to explore some of the best sports for amputees and how you can get started!

Popular Sports for Amputees

Getting back into sports after amputation can feel daunting, but it’s a powerful way to rebuild strength and boost your mental well-being.

Sports are a great way to stay active, connect with others, and discover new passions. There are so many activities out there that can be modified to fit your needs, so don’t hesitate to explore your options.

Here are some sports you might be interested to play.

Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair basketball is a popular sport that offers wheelchair users an exhilarating and competitive experience, combining physical activity with a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment.

With modified rules and equipment tailored to accommodate various disabilities, wheelchair basketball is an empowering way for amputees to stay active, have fun, and showcase their skills on the court.

The Game and Rules

Wheelchair basketball is played with two teams of five players, using a standard basketball court. The objective is to score more points than the opposing team by the end of four 10-minute periods. If tied, extra periods are played.

Players use wheelchairs to navigate the court. There are no double-dribble penalties, but players must pass, shoot, or dribble again after two pushes.

Scoring is the same as traditional basketball:

• 1 point for a free throw
• 2 points for a field goal inside the three-point line
• 3 points for a field goal beyond the line

Fouls are similar to traditional basketball, with additional rules for wheelchair use, like not lifting out of the chair or using feet to steer.

With its fast pace and strategic play, wheelchair basketball offers a thrilling experience for athletes of all abilities.

Getting Involved

How might you become a part of the court action? Start by contacting the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) or for information on forming or joining a team.

You might also explore alternative basketball leagues specifically designed for amputees. Eligibility to compete in Paralympic Games and international competitions may vary based on impairment groups, so be sure to check the requirements.

To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, you can also invest in specialized wheelchairs made from high-tech materials like carbon fiber. These chairs are designed to be:

• Strong and lightweight
• Angled wheels for better maneuverability
• Straps for added stability
• Low center of gravity to prevent tipping
• Wider wheelbase for stability

With the right equipment, support, and financial assistance, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a wheelchair basketball star!

Cycling

Cycling is a great option for lower-limb amputees as it offers a low-impact way to stay fit, often easier than walking, and a good alternative for those who find weight-bearing activities challenging.

There are plenty of bikes to choose from, including handcycles if you want to focus on upper-body strength, tricycles, recumbents, and power-assisted bikes for an extra boost. Running bikes, which are like tricycles without pedals, are another option that lets you walk or run with more support.

Whether you choose to cycle solo, head out with friends, or join a local cycling club, it’s a fun and accessible way to get moving.

Swimming

Swimming is is one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise. The water supports your body, reducing impact and allowing you to move with less strain.

Water is about 12 times denser than air, which means every movement you make provides resistance, giving you the benefits of both jogging and weightlifting.

Plus, since you’re submerged, it’s a more private form of exercise compared to other activities.

You don’t need a prosthetic to swim and many amputees leave their prosthesis on the poolside while they swim. Your balance might be slightly off at first, but your core will quickly adapt to help stabilize you.

Some pools have sloping steps, hoists, or moveable pool floors to make entry and exit easier. If necessary, a water-specific prosthesis is available, although most amputees find it unnecessary.

There are also plenty of swimming instructors who specialize in working with people with disabilities. So if you’re new to swimming, you’ll have the guidance you need.

Running

Running is a great way to stay fit and boost your mental well-being, but it’s important to set realistic expectations from the start.

For beginners, try interval training—alternating between walking and running to gradually build intensity and adjust to the demands of running.

Before considering a running blade, it’s essential to train with your everyday leg first. So you can get comfortable with running before jumping into a specialized prosthesis.

The right gear will also make a difference. Look for running shoes that fit your sound side leg, and choose clothing that keeps you comfortable and manages moisture well.

Running doesn’t just improve your physical fitness. It can also boost your self-esteem, enhance your body image, and improve your overall quality of life.

Organizations like Amputee Blade Runners and the Heather Abbott Foundation offer support, including financial help for running-specific prosthetics and training resources.

Tennis

Tennis is a great sport for amputees, whether you're using a prosthesis or not.

If you’re wearing a prosthesis, you can play in the traditional way, adapting your movements to suit your abilities. For those who don’t use a prosthesis, tennis can still be enjoyed from a sports chair.

In fact, both individuals can play alongside each other, making it an inclusive sport for all.

Whether you’re in a chair or standing, tennis offers an opportunity for fun, fitness, and friendly competition.

Football

Football is a great sport for amputees, with modified rules that make it inclusive and accessible. It’s mainly played without a prosthetic, with many players using crutches.

The Game and Rules

Amputee football is a modified version of traditional football, played with crutches.

With seven players per team and no offside rules, it's all about teamwork and strategy. Goalkeepers are not allowed out of the penalty area, while outfield players use crutches to move and control the ball.

There are no slide tackles allowed and you can’t use your residual limb to touch the ball. These changes make the game fun, fair, and competitive for everyone.

Cricket

Cricket has been adapted in several ways to make it more inclusive, and there are options for amputees to enjoy the sport.

You can play wheelchair cricket, walking cricket, or table cricket, each of which can be modified to meet your individual needs and abilities.

Whether you prefer playing in a wheelchair or on foot, these adaptations ensure that amputees can experience the thrill of cricket while accommodating different levels of mobility.

These variations make the sport accessible to everyone, allowing you to play at your own pace and comfort level.

Badminton

Badminton is a great sport, whether you have an upper or lower limb amputation.

If you have an upper-limb amputation, you can still play a traditional game since the racquet is held with just one arm. It may be more challenging, but the simplicity and accessibility of the game make it a fantastic option for staying active.

Plus, with a little practice, you’ll find it a fun and engaging way to improve your fitness and enjoy some friendly competition.

Sitting Volleyball

Sitting volleyball is an inclusive sport suitable for both above-knee and below-knee amputees. Played on the floor, it allows everyone to participate, regardless of their level of mobility.

Whether you're playing at a competitive level or just for fun, sitting volleyball is a great way to stay active and enjoy the spirit of sport.

The Game and Rules

The rules are modified so players can engage in the game from a seated position, which adds a unique challenge. The game promotes teamwork, speed, and agility, making it fun for all involved.

The basic idea is the same as regular volleyball. Each team tries to get the ball over the net to the opposing side, aiming to score points by making the ball land in the opponent's court.

Players use their hands and arms to hit the ball, but they must keep at least one “cheek” on the floor at all times. Players can’t stand, rise, or take steps, so movement is limited to sliding or shifting while seated.

The game is played on a smaller court, with each team allowed up to three contacts with the ball before sending it over. The team that wins a point serves next, and matches are typically played in a best-of-five set format.

It’s a fast-paced, high-energy sport that relies on teamwork, speed, and strategy. Whether you’re defending, passing, or attacking, sitting volleyball provides a fun and inclusive way to stay active and enjoy the thrill of volleyball.

Archery

If you're looking for a sport that combines precision and technique, archery offers a uniquely challenging and rewarding experience. It requires focus and control, and it’s an excellent way to test your skills.

Prosthetics also play a key role in enabling amputees like you to participate in archery. With the right prosthetic arm or hand, you can gain the stability and control needed to perform well in this precision sport.

Joining the Archery Community

Ready to take aim and join the archery community? You can get involved through archery clubs, organizations, and even competitions. Connecting with other archers will help you improve your skills and enjoy the camaraderie of this timeless sport.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a dynamic and engaging sport that can enhance hand-eye coordination for amputees. Whether you're playing independently or with a partner, it's a fun and challenging way to improve reflexes, mental alertness, and strategic thinking.

Para table tennis, one of the largest Paralympic sports, is played by athletes from over 100 countries and follows the same rules as traditional table tennis, with only a few modifications.

Matches consist of five sets of 11 points each, played over the best of five games, rather than the usual seven. Men and women can participate in individual, doubles, or team events.

The sport is open to athletes with a range of physical disabilities:

• Amputees
• Cerebral palsy
• Upper and lower limb paralysis
• Conditions like multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.

In addition to playing for fun, amputees can also compete in local and international table tennis tournaments. These events provide a chance to showcase your skills, meet other players, and enjoy friendly competition.

Local and International Competition

For those looking to take their table tennis skills to the next level, there are plenty of opportunities to compete. Whether you're aiming for local club tournaments or dreaming of the Paralympic Games, there are exciting platforms where you can demonstrate your abilities.

The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and other organizations have set classification rules to ensure fair competition, making it possible for amputees to compete on an equal footing.

With dedication, practice, and the right support, you can take part in thrilling competitions and achieve your goals in table tennis!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exercises can I do with an amputated leg?

If you have an amputated leg, you can focus on exercises that strengthen your core, upper body, and residual limb. Some exercises include quad sets, hip extensions, hamstring curls, and bridging for your lower body.

For your upper body, try seated push-ups, push-ups, rows, and shoulder presses to build strength. These exercises for amputees can help improve overall mobility and muscle strength.

How can adaptive equipment help amputees in sports?

Adaptive equipment can provide amputees with the necessary support and stability they need to participate in sports, making it easier for them to remain active and enjoy their favorite activities.

Are there specialized training programs for amputees in different sports?

Yes, there are specialized training programs for amputees in various sports like wheelchair basketball and archery.