Innovative Training Program Empowers Chilean Health Professionals with Inclusive Sports Techniques
Santiago, Chile – A collaborative training initiative spearheaded by the Kinesiology program at Santo Tomás University (UST) in Santiago is equipping health professionals with the tools to promote inclusivity through sport. The program, held on Tuesday, March 17th, focused on Takkyu Volley, a discipline originating in Japan, and its potential as a therapeutic and inclusive activity for individuals with disabilities. This effort underscores a growing commitment to accessible rehabilitation and adapted physical activity within Chile’s Eastern Metropolitan Health Service (SSMO), and highlights the power of international cooperation in advancing healthcare practices. The training reflects a broader trend toward recognizing the vital role of physical activity in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, and fostering a more inclusive society.
The workshop, hosted in the Media Classroom of Santo Tomás University, brought together professionals from across the eastern network of the SSMO, including representatives from CCR La Reina, CCR Peñalolén, Centro de Rehabilitación Lo Barnechea, CESFAM Cardenal Silva Henríquez, CESFAM Padre Gerardo Whelan, and INGER. The event also drew participation from authorities at the Pedro Aguirre Cerda National Rehabilitation Institute (INRPAC), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and members of the Japanese community in Chile, fostering a unique space for technical exchange and cross-cultural learning. This collaborative approach demonstrates a shared dedication to improving rehabilitation services and expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The Roots of the Collaboration: A 2023 Visit to Japan
The training program stems from a visit to Japan in 2023, where Chilean professionals explored the benefits of Takkyu Volley firsthand. Takkyu Volley, a sport blending elements of table tennis and volleyball, has gained recognition in Japan as a highly effective therapeutic tool for individuals with a wide range of disabilities. The discipline’s adaptable nature allows for participation regardless of physical limitations, promoting social interaction, physical activity, and a sense of accomplishment. The visit sparked a collaborative effort to bring this innovative approach to Chile, with the support of JICA and the expertise of Japanese practitioners. JICA, established in 1974, is the official development assistance agency of the Japanese government, dedicated to promoting international cooperation and supporting sustainable development initiatives worldwide. More information about JICA can be found on their official website.
Takkyu Volley: A Therapeutic and Inclusive Sport
Takkyu Volley’s appeal lies in its accessibility and adaptability. Unlike many traditional sports, it can be played by individuals with varying degrees of physical ability, including those with severe disabilities. The game is typically played with a lightweight ball and a low net, minimizing the physical demands on participants. The focus is on cooperation, strategy, and enjoyment, rather than competition. This emphasis on inclusivity makes Takkyu Volley an ideal activity for rehabilitation programs and adapted physical activity settings. The sport’s benefits extend beyond physical health, fostering social interaction, boosting self-esteem, and promoting a sense of belonging.
Key Participants and Perspectives
The training session was attended by key figures from the participating organizations. María Esteban Landaeta Le-Fort, Director of the National Rehabilitation Institute, and Marcela Guzmán, Deputy Medical Director, were present, demonstrating the institute’s commitment to innovative rehabilitation practices. Angela Diaz, Head of Community Rehabilitation, and Alondra Fuenzalida, a Japanese program intern, also participated, highlighting the collaborative nature of the initiative. Representatives from the Japanese community in Chile, including Hiroyuki Takeda, and JICA Japanese Volunteer Program Coordinators Masami and Fire, further underscored the international partnership driving the program. Pilar Marchant, representing the Eastern Metropolitan Health Service, also attended, signifying the SSMO’s support for the initiative.
Andrea Solis, Dean of the Faculty of Health at Santo Tomás University, emphasized the importance of connecting training programs with the real needs of the healthcare system. She highlighted the value of collaboration with both national and international institutions in expanding learning opportunities and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities. Dr. Matías Henríquez, the Kinesiology major responsible for organizing the activity, shared that the program was a direct result of his experiences in Japan as a scholarship recipient of a JICA collaboration program. He noted that “Takkyu Volley is an inclusive sport that facilitates the participation of people with high severity of disabilities,” and that the Kinesiology program actively promotes equitable access to physical activity opportunities.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Access and Strengthening Collaboration
The success of this initial training session signals a promising future for the integration of Takkyu Volley into rehabilitation programs across the Eastern Metropolitan Health Service. Participants expressed enthusiasm for implementing the discipline in their respective centers, with the goal of providing more inclusive and accessible physical activity options for individuals with disabilities. The collaborative spirit fostered during the training is expected to continue, with plans for ongoing knowledge sharing and joint initiatives. The Santo Tomás University Kinesiology program and the National Rehabilitation Institute are committed to strengthening this partnership, aiming to make Takkyu Volley a widely available and impactful tool for people with severe disabilities and their families.
The initiative aligns with broader global efforts to promote inclusivity and accessibility in sports and recreation. Organizations like Special Olympics and Paralympics International are working to break down barriers and create opportunities for athletes with disabilities to participate at all levels. Special Olympics provides year-round training and competition in a variety of sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The adoption of Takkyu Volley in Chile represents a significant step toward realizing these goals, and demonstrates the power of international collaboration in advancing inclusive healthcare practices.
The next step for the program involves follow-up workshops and ongoing support for health professionals as they implement Takkyu Volley in their respective centers. The Kinesiology program at Santo Tomás University will continue to provide guidance and resources, ensuring that the discipline is implemented effectively and safely. Further evaluation of the program’s impact will be conducted to assess its effectiveness in improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The long-term vision is to establish Takkyu Volley as a standard component of rehabilitation programs throughout Chile, promoting inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities to lead active and fulfilling lives.
What are your thoughts on the employ of innovative sports like Takkyu Volley in rehabilitation? Share your comments below, and let us know how you think One can further promote inclusivity in sports and healthcare. Don’t forget to share this article with your network to spread awareness of this critical initiative.