Adaptive Technology

 Since the creation of adaptive sports, many athletes who suffer from disabilities are able to participate in sports that they would not traditionally be able to. These athletes have since been given the opportunity to compete at elite levels, and break down barriers that had prevented them from competing. 

Running blades, prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, and other adaptive inventions have allowed impaired athletes to perform at a higher level. The inclusivity of athletes has also increased as participation is encouraged, no matter what the level of competition is. 

However, adaptive sports are not always accessible to all. Wealthier nations have greater access to adaptive technology, as well as programs specially designed to accommodate impaired athletes. Less fortunate countries may struggle to even obtain the basic equipment needed for competition. This creates an uneven playing field based on wealth and status, and not one based on ability or talent. The lack of resources may contribute to less global involvement as athletes may never get the opportunity to compete on a bigger stage. 

Some argue: should adaptive technology be allowed in sports at all?

While some believe that adaptive technology simply evens the paying field for all types of athletes, others believe it provides an unfair advantage.

Adaptive technology allows athletes to compete by leveling the playing field. Running blades allow athletes who have amputations to compete in several different field events. One notable athlete, Marissa Papaconstantinou, runs in the 100m T64 race with a running blade on her right side. She and several other athletes have been given the opportunity to compete with other able-bodied athletes. Not to mention, athletes like Marissa must train and learn how to operate their blades or other prosthetics which requires much skill. 

On the other hand, some people criticize adaptive sports stating they could create an unfair advantage to users. 

Some devices might reduce fatigue, or allow athletes to participate in movements that might set them ahead. Many argue that there is a fine line between compensating and enhancing, and it may be hard to distinguish with disables athletes. 

All athletes should be given the opportunity to compete at a higher level and reach success. But it becomes an ethical issue when not all disabled athletes have access to the same equipment and technology. This means that there needs to be guidelines in place so that all counties can be given equal chances to compete. With the proper regulation, all athletes should be allowed to compete in their sport, disabled and able-bodied alike.