Shifting Gears United provides adaptive sports programs to wounded veterans, first responders, children, and adults with varying disabilities. We aim to empower, educate, and enable the disability communities we serve to train and participate in mainstream sports.
We offer multi-adaptive sports programs to assist in rehabilitation through wellness and health. We encourage and welcome anyone to contact us and participate in our six programs.
• Running, Walking, Pushrim Wheelchair Racing—Our adaptive running program is open to all abilities. Our coaches train athletes with a systematic approach to set them up for success. We set up workout plans that provide measurable results, empowering our athletes to push their limits and reach their goals.
• The AquaFin Water Aerobics Program—starts the first week of February and runs through the end of September. All SGU members who want to participate must be able to swim. The AquaFins meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. weekly. Please contact Coach Jacqui to register.
• Handcycle Program—Our adaptive cycling program is all-inclusive. Our coaches provide one-on-one training for new athletes based on individual ability. With a focus on safety, all athletes are trained and educated in local bicycle traffic laws. The athletes learn how to safely operate handcycles in a controlled environment and are then welcome to join our weekly rides, with the goal of riding in our Annual Freedom Coast Ride in December.
• Triathlon/Paratriathlon—This is a combined race that includes swimming, biking, and running. This is a seasonal training program that starts in April and runs through September. Our coaches work one-on-one with athletes, creating individual workout plans that prepare them to compete in Triathlons.
• The Kayak Program—is a year-round program overseen by a certified coach. The coach teaches boat safety, including on-land instruction and ergonomic kayaking techniques. All participants must be able to swim.
• Adaptive Paddleboard Program—This is an all-inclusive, year-round program overseen by a certified coach. All SGU members who want to participate must be able to swim. Multiple ways are available to accommodate athletes with varying disabilities who want to paddleboard. Please contact Jacqui Kapinowski to register.
No experience is necessary, but you must register prior to any scheduled event.
Your help is needed now more than ever!
Shifting Gears United’s mission is dedicated to improving the quality of life for wounded veterans, first responders, and individuals living with disabilities through the power of adaptive sports.
Our programs are all-inclusive and offered free of charge to our athletes.
Your donation helps pay for specialized adaptive equipment, coaching, competition fees, team practices, and educational adaptive sports clinics.
Shifting Gears United, Inc., is a 501© (3) nonprofit organization; all donations are tax-deductible.
Our program’s success is only made possible by the kind support of generous donors like you.
- Help us to be the change– in healing a wounded veteran’s life to overcome the wounds of war.
- Help us to be the change– in helping someone regain their independence through adaptive sport.
- Help us to be the change– in lowering barriers and creating a more inclusive community.
“The Only Constant is Change!”
Thank you for supporting our mission.
