Abstract:
This study examines the experiences and meaning of physical activity in the aquatic
environment to enhance social, cultural and political understanding of its impact in the
lives of individuals with physical disabilities. Interviews, lived experience descriptions
and artifacts present an explanation of the felt sense oftheir bodies as they engage in
swimming or scuba diving.
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Combining written, verbal and visual descriptions generated by informants
provides a detailed account of the unique qualities of physical activity in the water for
those with physical disabilities. Participants' descriptions highlight that context is an
important aspect of physical activity among individuals with physical disabilities through
discussion of motility and the role of the lived body. Aspects of the aquatic environment
create a setting that facilitates forgetfulness of the lived body's presence. Instructors and
participants alike will benefit from learning the difference between the object body and
the lived body, listening to the body's voice as they participate in physical activity .
