Introducing Frame Running – A New Para Athletics Event

Frame running has been around for several years but was known as Race Running. It was developed by an athlete in Denmark who could only propel his wheelchair backwards.  He wanted to race on an athletics track like everyone else – facing forward. Due to his Cerebral Palsy, this was not possible. There has been limited opportunities for race running over the last 20 years, and since 2009, lots of work has been undertaken to develop the event, including research studies.  Finally, after many years, it was included in the European Championships in 2018.   It was then added to the schedule in the World Para-athletics Championships in 2019.  Recently, the World Para-Athletics has formally included Frame Running in the para-sport movement. It will be part of the 2022 World Championships, before making its Paralympic debut in Paris in 2024. 

Frame running is for people with neurological conditions. These include Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, acquired brain injury or similar. The athlete will be unable to run.  In most cases, they will be wheelchair users (electric or manual wheelchairs). The frame running frame is like a “trike”, but it has no pedals, allowing the athlete to use their legs to move forward. 

Every aspect of the frame, including the seat, handlebars and chest plate can be moved and adapted to suit the individual.  These aspects are key to making frame running as easy and comfortable to take part in as possible.

The health benefits of frame running are extensive.  Not only does it provide aerobics exercise for people that may have been limited in the past, but it will also allow movement and muscle development in their legs. Many wheelchair users may not have experienced either of these aspects before.  The sense of being part of a sport and being able to run, will undoubtedly help and support good mental health and well-being. Frame running can create confidence, develop self-esteem and show someone what is possible!

At the start, I had no intention of getting involved in frame running. I was approached by a few athletes who needed somebody to help them and somewhere to train.  After a lot of persuasion, I caved in and agreed to develop frame running in Manchester. We now have GLL at Sport City on board and will be having weekly training sessions at the Etihad track.

We want frame running to be accessible to all disabled people. It is really important that we make sure every child who may enjoy frame running has a chance to try it. This led me to apply for a Sport England grant allowing us to buy two frame running frames. We have a child size and a standard adult size. These are part of the sessions in Manchester but we want to make sure anyone can have the chance to have a go local to them. We are offering taster sessions in schools across Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cheshire. The sessions will last up to an hour and a half and we can accommodate up to 4 people depending on their age. 

If you want to find out more about frame running or would like to book a session for your school or community club, please contact Ability Consultancy on claire@ability-consultancy.co.uk or on 07799 770362.