Achterhoek Takes a Step Toward Inclusive Sports: Fewer Incentives, More People Getting Active
From March 29 through April 5, the Achterhoek region will be focusing on low-stimulus sports and exercise. During this campaign week in Gelderland, activities will be organized at multiple locations—including Aalten, Ulft, ’s-Heerenberg, Rietmolen, and Lochem—for people who benefit from a low-stimulus sports environment. By offering a more relaxed range of sports activities, the region aims to lower barriers so that more residents can get moving in a sustainable way.
For many people, exercise and physical activity are a given. But for residents who are sensitive to stimuli—such as bright lights, noise, or crowds—that very environment becomes a barrier. As a result, they are more likely to stay on the sidelines, which has consequences for their health and well-being.
The “Low-Stress Sports and Exercise” campaign week is changing that. In the Achterhoek region, we’re seeing how sports can be organized differently: in a calmer, more structured way, with personalized guidance. The goal is clear: to encourage more residents to participate in sports and exercise on a long-term basis, thereby contributing to a healthier region.
Activities in the Achterhoek
During the week and in the days that follow, residents can take part in various low-stimulus activities:
Low-stimulation swimming – Aalten
On Wednesday, April 1, from 2:45 to 4:00 p.m., ’t Walfort Swimming Pool will offer a quiet swimming environment with dimmed lights, no music, and fewer visitors.
Exercise groups for people with acquired brain injury – Ulft and ’s-Heerenberg
A regular program in which participants work in small groups on recovery, physical fitness, and social connection.
Low-stimulation tennis – Rietmolen
Exercising in a peaceful setting, with room to go at your own pace and time for recovery.
Low-impact exercise in water – Lochem
During "Aqua Silent," participants exercise without loud music, in a relaxed and safe atmosphere.
“We’re breaking down barriers so that more people can participate”
“For many people, the problem isn’t a lack of motivation, but the environment in which they exercise,” says Suzanne Spexgoor of Achterhoek in Beweging. “By removing barriers, we make exercise accessible again. We ensure that residents don’t drop out, but can actually participate again.”
The campaign week is an initiative of the Uniek Sporten regions in Gelderland and is supported by the Gelderland Sports Federation and Achterhoek in Beweging.
More information
Residents interested in low-impact sports and exercise can view the full range of options at:www.unieksporten.nl/gelderland/prikkelarm.