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Veterans invited to VA Salt Lake City’s Adaptive Sports Cycle Clinic

A woman riding an adaptive bicycle on a dirt road
Recreation Therapy aims to improve Veterans' physical, mental and social skills, as well as help them reintegrate into their communities.
By Jesus Flores, VISN 19 writer & editor

VA Salt Lake City Health Care System invites eligible Veterans to participate in its  Adaptive Sports Cycle Clinic from June 6, 2024, to June 8, 2024.

Clinic details and schedule

The three-day clinic begins at the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center’s outpatient Adaptive Sports Recreation Therapy Program facilities in Building 1, first floor in outpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

The clinic goes from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Veterans are strongly encouraged to join on the first day, as the clinic will have other starting points on days two and three. 

The clinic focuses on bike maintenance and mechanics and will include group rides. It is designed to introduce Veterans to a new way to stay active.

Benefits of adaptive cycling 

VA’s Adaptive Sports Grant Program allows Veterans to participate in activities they once loved or would like to try to improve health and wellness and stay active. Veterans of all abilities are invited. 

“I have a traumatic brain injury, balance and vision issues, so being able to ride a recumbent bike has been amazing,” said Nicholas Flemett, a U.S. Army Veteran and clinic participant. “I ride safely without fear of falling over and getting hurt. Getting out there has boosted my spirits, endurance and confidence.”

Participation in recreation therapy

Recreation therapy is a treatment service designed to restore, remediate and rehabilitate a Veteran’s level of functioning and independence in life activities, promote health and wellness and reduce or eliminate the activity limitations and restrictions caused by an illness or disabling condition. Adaptive cycling may appeal to Veterans who have had amputations, use prosthetics, are adapting to injuries and are looking for new ways to be active.

Veterans need their provider’s referral to continue with adaptive sports therapy. This ensures that Veterans receive care tailored to their needs. Learn more about recreation therapy and adaptive sports. 

Equipment information

Veterans with adaptive cycles are encouraged to bring their equipment to learn about specific mechanics and maintenance. Veterans do not need their own equipment to participate.

RSVP and contact information

Please contact Shannon O’Rawe to RSVP and secure your spot or if you have questions about the clinic or adaptive sports.

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Jesus Flores is a writer & editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran