In 2014, the introduction of snowboarding to the Paralympic Games marked a major turning point in the inclusion of para-athletes in snow sports. However, many other sports are still waiting to be put in the spotlight!
Advances in prosthetic development play a crucial role in this process. Arts et Métiers its deep gratitude to Sophie Loubet, Xavier Bonnet, ANICES, Patrice Barattero, and Eric Dargent for their invaluable support in the research and development of adapted prostheses.
One step closer to inclusion in sports
As part of the PA4 expertise program, Arts et Métiers the Georges Charpak Institute of Human Biomechanics joined forces for the HANDISNOW project, focusing on people and education. This experience enabled students to design equipment that meets the specific needs of athletes, thereby contributing to the development of prostheses adapted to sporting activities.
We would also like to thank the Arts et Métiers Foundation, the Handitecham Foundation, AMValor, and the Carnot ARTS Institute for their unwavering support for this project.
Education at the heart of the project
Finally, let us salute the remarkable commitment of the students, faculty, researchers, and all those who contributed to this adventure. This project has been an enriching technological experience for the students, giving them a special sense of pride, as it was often their first experience of leading a project from start to finish, from idea to testing. It has also proved to be a unifying force for students, teachers and campus staff alike, highlighting the importance of such initiatives for skills development and the promotion of inclusion, both in sport and in our society.
The development of cutting-edge technologies for sport can help us move towards a more inclusive society. Indeed, innovations in sports prosthetics also contribute to improving prosthetics for everyday life, making society more accessible and inclusive for all. Beyond its competitive aspects, sport is a powerful vehicle for promoting inclusion and moving towards a truly inclusive society.