Article

Participation in sailing by people with disabilities, particularly in small
sailboats, is widely regarded as having positive outcomes on self-esteem and
general health for the participants. However, a major hurdle for people with no
previous experience of sailing, even by those without disabilities, is the
perception that sailing is elitist, expensive, and dangerous. Real-time "ride-on"
sailing simulators have the potential to bridge the gap between dry-land and
on-the-water sailing. These provide a realistic, safe, and easily supervised
medium in which nonsailors can easily and systematically learn the required
skills before venturing out on the water. The authors report a 12-wk pilot
therapeutic sailing program using the VSail-Access sailing simulation system
followed by on-water experience. After completion of the training, all subjects
demonstrated the ability to navigate a simple course around marker buoys
(triangular configuration) on the computer screen, the ability to sail
independently in winds of moderate strength (up to 14 knots) on water, and
measurable improvements in their psychologic health. In addition, the subjects
were able to participate in a sports activity with their respective family
members and experienced a sense of optimism about their future.

Langue : ANGLAIS