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Mark Fosbrook
Last updated: 27/7/2011
Expires: 27/1/2020
Gymnastics
Some of the disabilities that participate in this sport are:
Amputees
Dwarf
Hearing Impairment
Learning Disabilities
Cerebral Palsy
Spinal Cord Injury
Spina bifida
Visual Impairment
GMPD stands for Gymnastics and Movement for People with a Disability. It involves the coach adapting some skills to ensure people with a disability are able to take part in gymnastic activities.
Historically people with a learning disability had access to gymnastics through the Special Olympics Movement, however there was no similar provision for those with physical or sensory disabilities.
As a result GMPD was set up to develop and provide training and competitive opportunities for people with any disability. Initially this was started using existing Special Olympic Routines but quickly changed to come into line with the mainstream disciplines within BG.
A National Development Plan and Voluntary Competition structure was introduced in Men's and Women's Artistic, Acrobatics and Rhythmic gymnastics. Both follow the mainstream format with appropriate modifications.
All of the disciplines within British Gymnastics have a role in the promotion and inclusion of people with disabilities. Whether accommodated within mainstream clubs or in specialised centres, it is every coach's responsibility to provide appropriate level of training for all individuals in their care.
For more information about Gymnastics please select a link below: