CRC SPT NUTR PARALYMPIC ATH PDF

Preface

When I was first approached by Ira Wolinsky as to whether I was interested in editing a book on sports nutrition for athletes with an impairment, I was grateful that finally the unique needs and challenges of these athletes were being recognised and were believed to be worth devoting more than a chapter to. Throughout the ensuing (and daunting) process of collating all the information presented in this book, I have been reminded of how little we know in some areas, while being buoyed by the enthusiastic researchers and practitioners who have a lot to contribute.

Individuals with an impairment constantly have to adapt to progress in the world we live in-our challenge is to come up with ideas about how they can do this in sport. The scope of this book was not to rewrite a range of excellent comprehensive resources already devoted to various aspects of sports nutrition, but rather to provide a more expansive set of knowledge, considerations and tips that a practitioner might need to consider when applying this knowledge to an athlete with an impairment. In doing so, I believed it was important to provide as much background information about impairments and para-sport as necessary and practical. In my professional experience, I have become very comfortable with the fact that many athletes with an impairment are "an N of 1" who have their own unique needs and challenges, and have embraced the problem-solving process that is often required to help them optimise and adapt to training, compete at their desired level (whatever that may be), remain healthy and above all, enjoy their sport. If there's one thing I've learnt, it's to never think that something may not be possible.

This book is aimed at students interested in working within para-sport and sports nutrition, sports practitioners and coaches who are searching for information to help them adapt their practice if necessary, and researchers who may want some ideas as to some cool research projects to involve their students in!