Programs and Registration

The Steadward Centre has four main program areas

Adult Fitness and Recreation (AFR), Athlete Development for Parasport, Free2BMe, and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Adult Fitness and Recreation (AFR)

Our adult programs are designed to promote, foster, and assist participants in becoming independent, self-determined individuals with the confidence to be physically active and fully engaged in their communities.

We provide structured, individual, and group exercise programs for adults experiencing disability under the supervision of staff trained in Adapted Physical Activity and Certified Exercise Physiologists, in a supportive, welcoming, and inclusive environment.


Athlete Development for Parasport

Our Athlete Development for Parasport program includes sport-specific training in 2 parasports (swimming and athletics), physical conditioning, and para coach education workshops. Programs engage athletes experiencing disability who currently participate in recreational sport through to high-performance sport in the development of competitive sport skills. Led by experienced coaches, athletes receive individualized programs focused on the demands of each sport and the unique abilities of each athlete.


Free2BMe

We support whole child development by providing physical activity and fitness for children and youth who are experiencing disability. With a focus on physical literacy, Free2BMe programs are designed to support participants in developing skills and knowledge towards active lifestyles while building choice and independence in a fun, social environment. Medical referrals are not necessary to participate in our programs. Free2BMe programs are led and supervised by staff trained in Adapted Physical Activity.


Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a technique by which electrical currents are applied to nerves supplying paralysed or weakened muscle through electrodes placed on the surface of the skin (transcutaneous). This current delivers the necessary stimulation to elicit a muscle contraction with the purpose of providing functionally useful movements that can aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes.

The Steadward Centre FES Exercise Program offers three forms of FES-assisted physical activity: FES Leg Cycling, FES Arm Cycling, and Combined FES Arm and Leg Elliptical. Programs exist within The Steadward Centre, Saville Community Sports Centre, the Don Wheaton YMCA, and the Castle Downs YMCA.


Remote training

If you are interested in remote training, please reach out to Jessica Ferguson (tscparasport@ualberta.ca) for information about para sport training, including para athletics and para swimming, and Scott Forrester (tscmgr@ualberta.ca) for information about fitness and exercise training.

TSC@Home Stretching Class

If you are looking for a stretching class that you can do at home, please join Justina as she leads you through a stretching routine.

Winter 2022 Recreation Programs

Registration is open on November 28 for all Steadward Centre programs. Browse our program list for more information and a list of all available courses.

If you have questions, please email infotsc@ualberta.ca or phone (780) 492-3182.

Program Options

Not sure what program is right for you?

Take this 5-minute quiz for a program recommendation!

Find your TSC program