Adaptive Running with NeuroGym
A space to welcome runners, walkers, and rollers of all abilities.
Why We Do This
The health benefits of running are well established, but they are not exclusively physical in nature. Running is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, explore our beautiful city, and socialize. We want to bring these benefits to more people, regardless of their level of ability.
What We Offer
Adapted Running Chair
NeuroGym has a Kartus All-Terrain Wheelchair. The chair is designed to be comfortable for the rider and easy to push for the runner.
Outings
Throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall (weather permitting), our volunteers are happy to take individuals out for runs throughout the city. Outings are currently offered on weeknights and weekends, please complete the contact form if you’re interested in going for a run!
Race Participation
Are you interested in participating in one of the many great races that take place in Ottawa? Complete the contact form to let us know which race and which distance you’re interested in and we’ll see if we can make it happen!
Chair Rentals
Are you interested in pushing a friend or family member? Complete the contact form and we’ll help make it happen. Please note that a small fee will be charged for rentals.
How It Started
Ken, a former runner and NeuroGym client, and Stéphane, a runner and NeuroGym Kinesiologist, would often talk about their shared interest in running when working together. In the spring of 2023, Ken jokingly told Stéphane that he should push him in the 5K at Army Run later that fall. After initially laughing it off, they agreed to give it a shot.
Lacking a better solution, they ended up participating using Ken’s regular wheelchair for both the Ottawa Army Run 5K in 2023 and the Ottawa Race Weekend 5K in 2024. They made it work, but it was a bumpy ride for Ken and a tough push for Stéphane. Those experiences triggered a search for a better solution, which ultimately led to the Kartus All-Terrain Wheelchair.
At Ottawa Race Weekend 2025, they were able to borrow a Kartus and participate in the 5K together once more, but this time it was much more enjoyable for both of them. The experience was so impactful for Ken and his family that they were generous enough to donate a Kartus to NeuroGym so that we could start offering this experience to more people.
What's Next?
We would love to expand the program to allow for a broader ranger of adapted participation. This could include the use of more adaptive devices as well as support for individuals that have mobility impairments but do not require mobility aids. If you have any ideas or would like to collaborate, please feel free to reach out by completing the contact form.
Media Coverage
Lorsque course à pied et accessibilité se rencontrent – Le Droit (French) – May 2025
Running duo using an adaptive wheelchair reflect on Ottawa Race Weekend – CBC Ottawa Morning – May 2025
Runners lace up for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend – CTV News – May 2025
Interested in Volunteering?
Are you interested in volunteering your time to take individuals out for runs? Please fill out the contact form to let us know!
