Para Athlete
Development
Framework

Empowering Para-Athletes to Thrive, Excel, and Win

Swimmers in the pool, the camera is underwater and looking up as they swim in their individual lanes. Swimmers in the pool, the camera is underwater and looking up as they swim in their individual lanes.

Overview

The Para-Athlete Development Framework (PADF) is a world-leading guide designed to support current and aspiring para-athletes, their families, coaches, and support teams throughout their sporting journey.

Rooted in an athlete-centred philosophy, the PADF provides flexible, practical guidance that adapts to the unique needs, circumstances, and ambitions of each individual.

Purpose and Audience

The PADF is for anyone involved in para-sports - athletes, parents, coaches, and support staff.

It offers a structured yet adaptable roadmap for sporting and personal development, ensuring Para-athletes can fulfil their potential both in sport and in life.

The framework is relevant at every stage, from exploring sport for the first time to competing at the highest levels. it is non-prescriptive by design.

This allows the content to be applied in a manner that is relevant to the unique needs, circumstances and aspirations of individual Para-athletes.

Zak Skinner stands in a red top and black shorts after competing at the London Stadium.

The Fundamentals

  • Classification: Understanding the classification system and its implications is essential for all Para-athletes.
  • Pathway to Podium: Navigating local and national sport systems, accessing coaching, equipment, and support.
  • Knowing Me, Knowing You: Encourages self-awareness and open communication about impairment, personal care, and life balance.
  • Support Networks: Recognises the vital role of family, coaches, and peers in athlete development.
  • Safeguarding: Prioritises safety, respect, and well-being in all sporting environments.
  • The Paralympic Movement: Promotes the values of inclusion, equality, and the history of the Paralympic movement.

A Flexible, Athlete-Centred Approach

The PADF is intentionally non-prescriptive, allowing athletes and their teams to tailor its guidance to their unique journeys.

It is a living resource, designed to be revisited and adapted as athletes progress, face new challenges, and achieve new milestones.

Download an overview of the PADF
PDF Document

The Framework

To explore the four core development areas, find out how each area can support the holistic development of para-athletes, and access resources for each, visit our resources page.

Access Resources

1

My Training & Competition

Focus

Building sport-specific skills, fitness, and mental resilience.

Key Areas

Training cycles, competition formats, independence, team dynamics, performance optimisation, and preparation for domestic and international events.

Application

Tailor training plans to individual needs, support athletes in understanding competition structures, and foster positive team environments.

2

My Health & Wellbeing

Focus

Sustaining long-term physical and mental health.

Key Areas

Injury prevention, impairment management, female athlete health, mental health, nutrition, recovery, sleep hygiene, and mindful use of social media.

Application

Integrate health and wellbeing strategies into daily routines, provide access to specialist support, and address the unique needs of Para-athletes.

3

My Para Sport Journey

Focus

Supporting athletes beyond sporting achievement.

Key Areas

Identity transitions, dua career planning, sport ethics, network management, personal branding, financial fitness, athlete voice, sponsorships, and social impact.

Application

Encourage athletes to develop skills and networks that support both their sporting and non-sporting ambitions, and promote ethical and inclusive practices.

4

My Training & Competition

Focus

Preparing athletes for life after sport.

Key Areas

(De/Re)classification, de-selection, talent transfer, and career transition planning, ensuring they have the skills, resources, and support needed.

Application

Initiate early conversations about career transitions, provide resources for planning, and connect athletes with relevant support services.

Download the PADF (PDF Version)

For more information about the Para-Athlete Development Framework, contact: Joe.Taylor@uksport.gov.uk

It’s important to us that this document is accessible for everyone, if you can’t access it please get it touch with: digital@uksport.gov.uk

Contact us

UK Sport
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10 South Colonnade
London
E14 4PU

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