Top 5 Adaptive Fitness Programs for Veterans with Disabilities

For many Veterans living with physical disabilities or chronic injuries, staying active can feel like a challenge but it’s also one of the most powerful tools for reclaiming strength, confidence, and independence. Thankfully, adaptive fitness programs across the country are helping Veterans break through barriers and stay mission-ready, no matter their physical condition.

Here are five standout programs that are making a real difference in the lives of disabled Veterans:

1. VA Adaptive Sports Program

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers one of the most comprehensive adaptive sports and fitness programs in the country. Through local and national events, this program connects Veterans with everything from wheelchair basketball and cycling to adaptive strength training.

● What It Offers: Training camps, competitive events, and community-based sports opportunities.

● Who It's For: Veterans with disabilities, amputations, spinal cord injuries, PTSD, and more.

● How to Join: Visit va.gov/adaptivesports to apply or find a local event.

2. Wounded Warrior Project – Physical Health & Wellness

The Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) understands that recovery is about more than just physical rehab, it's about reclaiming your life. Their Physical Health & Wellness program helps warriors make lasting lifestyle changes through fitness training, coaching, and adaptive equipment support.

● Features: Group classes, virtual workouts, and in-person events tailored for all fitness levels.

● Unique Benefit: Offers holistic wellness with a focus on mental and emotional recovery as well.

3. Move United

Formerly known as Disabled Sports USA, Move United is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting adaptive sports and inclusive fitness. With over 200 local chapters, they make it easier for Veterans to get involved in their own communities.

● Fitness Focus: From strength and conditioning to skiing, swimming, and rock climbing.

● Veteran Outreach: Partnered with VA hospitals and Warrior Games to expand reach.

Check for local chapters or events at moveunitedsport.org.

4. Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) – Sports & Recreation

PVA offers specialized fitness programs for Veterans living with spinal cord injuries or diseases, as well as those with mobility impairments. Their Sports & Recreation division focuses on empowering veterans through movement.

● Programs Include: Handcycling, powerlifting, adaptive rowing, and bowling.

● Support: Travel grants, national competitions, and peer mentorship for long-term motivation.

Explore their offerings at pva.org.

5. Team RWB (Red, White & Blue)

Team RWB’s mission is to enrich the lives of Veterans through physical and social activity. Their community-based approach means veterans can participate in everything from weekly yoga to endurance races and many with adaptive options.

● What Makes It Unique: A focus on connection: veterans workout together, stay motivated, and build friendships.

● Accessibility: Many events are virtual or designed to be modified for any physical ability.

Find an event or local chapter at teamrwb.org.

Your service may be in the past, but your strength isn’t. Whether you’re navigating life with a new disability or adjusting to chronic injuries, there are adaptive programs built just for you. These organizations are doing more than helping veterans move again, they’re helping Veterans live again. Know someone who could benefit from this list? Share this article and remind them that their next mission starts now.

References:

Andresr. (2020, May 4). Disabled senior man changing in the dressing room at the gym –. . . iStock. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/disabled-senior-man-changing-in-the- dressing-room-at-the-gym-gm1222239819-358582774?searchscope=image%2Cfilm

Department of Veterans Affairs (smw). (2025, February 27). VA National Veterans Sports Programs. National Veterans Sports Programs. https://department.va.gov/veteran- sports/ 

Home. (2025, April 3). Paralyzed Veterans of America. https://pva.org/ 

Molina, M. (2024, February 13). Physical fitness resources to ignite a healthier future - VA News. VA News. https://news.va.gov/128631/physical-fitness-resources/ 

Move United. (2025, April 10). Move United. https://moveunitedsport.org/ 

Team Red, White & Blue. (n.d.). Team Red, White & Blue. https://teamrwb.org/ 

Wounded Warrior Project. (n.d.). https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org 

Tinney, M. J., & Nguyen, C. (2024). Supporting a lifetime of fitness for the military veteran athlete: a narrative review. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 6. https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2024.1510422