Inclusion in sport: How just 100,000 euros overcome barriers!

Inclusion in sport: How just 100,000 euros overcome barriers!

In a country where sport is often viewed as an integral part of life, people with disabilities face unique hurdles. These challenges were particularly discussed on October 11, 2025 in Salzburg. Inclusion in sport can be the key to a more self-confident lifestyle, as the “React to Move” project impressively proves. This is an initiative by Jugend am Werk and the Burgenland Startup For Sports, which aims to break down barriers in sport through innovative technology. Incubator reports that sport is often difficult for people with disabilities due to prejudices, a lack of offerings and a lack of adaptations.

“React to Move” uses special reaction pads that were developed for professional training but are now adapted to the needs of people with learning difficulties. These pads, which are controlled via an app, are not only suitable for strength and endurance training, but also for hand-eye coordination exercises and various movement games. Loud IT Boltwise The developers' concerns have overwhelmed them, but the positive experiences show that the technology also benefits people who are less interested in sports and seniors.

Promotion and support

A central aspect of the implementation of the project is the financial support from the aws IÖB-Toolbox funding program, which enables innovative procurement projects and is funded by the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology. Up to 100,000 euros will be allocated per project, which would not have been possible without the support, according to those responsible for Jugend am Werk and For Sports.

The adaptation of the Reaction Pads was carried out in close collaboration with sports educators and specialist supervisors to ensure that the exercises are really tailored to the needs of the users. The initiative has the clear goal of making the technology accessible to people with disabilities and thus promoting their participation in sport. Human Action emphasizes that playing sports together helps to break down prejudices and promote acceptance among one another.

A step towards inclusion

However, inclusion in sport is not just a technical challenge. As current statistics show, many people with disabilities do not have the opportunity to pursue their interest in sports. The proportion of people with disabilities who do not exercise has risen to an alarming 55%. The reasons for this are often a lack of inclusive local sports offerings and a lack of accessibility to sports facilities.

The “React to Move” project shows that with the right approach – paired with technology and a clear focus on inclusion – great progress can be made. The developments show that it is important not only to break down the barriers, but also to strengthen the willingness for acceptance and integration in the relevant areas of society. Working together in sport could be the key to a more positive attitude towards inclusion.