Disc Golf: Fun, Accessible, and Full of Possibilities
Highlights:
Disc golf is like golf, but you throw discs (frisbees) into baskets.
It’s easy to learn, fun, and can be played by people of all abilities.
Disc golf helps with physical fitness and mental health.
People in Motion in Kamloops supports members with disabilities to try new activities.
I, Krystian Shaw, will be playing disc golf with my support workers thanks to donated discs.
Membership at People in Motion is affordable and offers fun, inclusive programs.
Disc golf is one of those activities that is easy to enjoy, no matter your age or abilities. You don’t need a lot of equipment, you don’t need to be a professional athlete, and you can play at your own pace. All you need is a few discs and a love for being outdoors. What makes disc golf even more special is how accessible it can be. Courses are usually open to everyone, and with the right support, people with disabilities or anxiety can have a great experience.
What is Disc Golf?
Disc golf is very similar to regular golf, but instead of hitting a ball with a club, you throw a disc (like a frisbee) toward a target. The target is usually a metal basket with chains that catch the disc. The goal is to get your disc into the basket using as few throws as possible. Courses can vary in length and difficulty, but most are designed to be fun and enjoyable for everyone.
Key Highlights of Disc Golf:
Easy to Learn: Anyone can pick up a disc and start playing. There are no complicated rules, and you can learn as you go.
Fun and Social: You can play alone, with friends, or with support workers. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and meet new people.
Good Exercise: Walking between holes, throwing, and reaching improves fitness, balance, and coordination.
Accessible: Courses can accommodate different abilities, and with support, people with disabilities can fully enjoy the game.
Affordable: Once you have a disc set, most courses are free to play. This makes it easy for anyone to try.
I’m really excited to share that I, Krystian Shaw, am going to be playing disc golf with my support workers. I was lucky enough to receive a set of discs from People in Motion in Kamloops, and this donation has opened the door for me to explore a new passion. I’ve been wanting to try disc golf for a while because it’s a fun way to exercise. I already work out at the Tournament Capital Centre in Kamloops on the exercise bikes with my support workers, and I like listening to music on my MP3 player while I exercise. It makes the time go faster and keeps me motivated. But I wanted something different, something I could enjoy outside in the fresh air, and disc golf seemed perfect.
Living with developmental disabilities and an anxiety disorder can sometimes make trying new activities feel challenging. But People in Motion believes in their members and encourages everyone to explore their interests, set goals, and follow their passions. This support makes a huge difference because I know I’m not alone when I try something new. Having my support workers with me will help me feel confident and safe, and it makes the activity even more fun. They are friendly, funny, and always ready to encourage me.
People in Motion is an amazing organization in Kamloops that has helped me and many others access activities that improve physical health, mental health, and social connections. They have many donors, including Community Living BC, which supports programs such as iMove, a fitness program for CLBC clients in Kamloops. iMove helps people stay active, try new exercises, and enjoy the benefits of fitness in a safe and supportive environment. Membership fees to join People in Motion are very reasonable, which makes it easier for more people to participate in activities that they might not have tried before.
Disc golf itself is an excellent way to combine exercise, fun, and social time. It doesn’t matter if you are just starting out or if you’ve played before—everyone can enjoy it. The sport encourages walking, reaching, and throwing, which are great for physical health. It also has mental health benefits because being outdoors, focusing on a goal, and enjoying nature can reduce stress and anxiety. For me, knowing that I have support and the right equipment means I can focus on enjoying the game rather than worrying about challenges.
I am really looking forward to playing disc golf more regularly, especially when the weather gets warmer in the spring and summer. It’s not just about exercise; it’s about having fun, learning new skills, and feeling proud when you complete a course or make a great throw. It’s also a chance to spend time with my support workers, who make every activity more enjoyable. Their encouragement, humor, and kindness make a big difference, and it’s something I always look forward to.
People in Motion doesn’t just provide equipment and programs—they provide opportunities for people to grow, explore, and follow their dreams. They know that everyone has different interests, abilities, and goals, and they work hard to create an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. Whether someone wants to try fitness classes, swimming, dancing, or disc golf like me, People in Motion supports members in reaching their goals and having fun along the way.
The donation of disc golf discs is more than just giving someone equipment—it’s about giving the chance to discover a new passion, to try something new, and to enjoy life in a meaningful way. I am very grateful to People in Motion and all their donors for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to get started, and I know that playing disc golf will be a highlight of my spring and summer activities.
Disc golf is a wonderful example of an activity that is accessible, inclusive, and fun. It can be adapted for people with different abilities and can be played at any skill level. For people who, like me, have developmental disabilities or anxiety, having supportive companions and the right equipment can make all the difference. I hope that more people learn about disc golf and consider trying it themselves, especially if they are looking for a new hobby, a fun way to exercise, or a social activity with friends and support workers.
In the end, disc golf is about more than just throwing discs into baskets—it’s about enjoying life, taking care of your mental and physical health, and connecting with others. I am excited for the days ahead when I will head out to a course, throw my discs, and experience the joy of learning a new skill. I’m thankful for People in Motion, their donors, my support workers, and everyone who believes that people should have the opportunity to explore their interests and passions. Activities like this help us grow, stay active, and most importantly, have fun.
Whether you’re new to disc golf or have been playing for years, it’s a sport that can be enjoyed by anyone. And thanks to organizations like People in Motion in Kamloops, more people have the support, encouragement, and resources they need to get started and succeed. I can’t wait to see where this journey with disc golf takes me, and I hope it inspires others to try new activities, explore their passions, and enjoy all the fun, accessible opportunities around them.
Disc Golf Tips for Beginners
Start small: Try a few holes first and practice your throws. You don’t need to finish the whole course at once.
Take your time: Disc golf is about having fun, not rushing. Take breaks and enjoy the outdoors.
Go with a friend or support worker: It’s more fun and easier to learn with someone encouraging you.
Focus on improvement: Celebrate each successful throw and enjoy the progress you make.
People in Motion can help you get started.
https://www.peopleinmotion.org/
