Austria - Inclusion through sports

The 6th of June is considered the day of visual impairment in Austria. This year the Austrian Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (BSVÖ) made "Sports and Health" the motto for the occasion. A topic that is more up-to-date than ever, after the corona-related lockdown and the opening steps that are taking place in the sports sector nationally.

Movement is an essential contribution to an active life. In addition to physical well-being, sport is also of great importance for mental health and represents an important building block for inclusion and participation in society.

How much the many benefits of exercising are valued at BSVÖ can be seen through a wide range of sporting activities offered by the seven national organizations to their members. Everything from gymnastics, yoga, swimming to table tennis, darts or bowling is included. Additionally training camps for a variety of summer and winter sports are provided.

Dr. Markus Wolf, President of the Austrian Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted Austria (BSVÖ), emphasizes: “Sport is of great importance, especially for visually impaired people. Everyone should have the opportunity to do sports and not only to do something for their own health, but also to actively participate in life and society. That's what we stand for!"