In Perpignan, the Maison Sport Santé accompanies the resumption of adapted physical activity to improve health, autonomy, and social connections.
Here, there is no clock, no competition, no focus on performance at all costs, but rather coaches for adapted physical activity. The idea is to move to feel better. “We want to get people moving or back to movement,” explains Florence Brunet, coordinator of the Maison Sport Santé in Perpignan and coach in adapted physical activity.
A sport as a therapeutic tool
Within these structures, sport becomes a complete therapeutic tool that reaches almost everyone. “From sedentary individuals to those with a pathology, a chronic illness, or a disability.” Diabetes, cancer, depression, motor disorders, all profiles intersect. There are no labels here. “People are not categorized based on their condition.” Results speak for themselves. “People who had difficulty performing simple movements regain their autonomy and enjoy returning to movement.” Regaining gesture, balance, confidence. Sometimes, simply reconnecting with daily life. But beyond the physical benefits, the impact is broader. The body strengthens, the mind calms down, and social connections are reborn. “Many social connections are created, some become friends, meet at the same sessions, or contact each other to go for a walk together.”
Image Source: La Semaine du Roussillon
A gateway to more autonomy
The follow-ups last an average of 3 to 6 months, and in Perpignan, membership is valid annually to aim for real change. The membership fee is 25 euros per month, with unlimited access, and some health insurances may cover all or part of it. The real challenge, however, remains motivation, through small groups and gradual support. “The idea is not for them to stay with us for their entire life.” Eventually, participants are directed towards clubs or adapted practices. In the Pyrénées-Orientales, seven Maison Sport Santé structures cover the territory: Perpignan, Argelès-sur-Mer, Salses/Corbières, Vallespir/Arles-sur-Tech, Cabestany, Pyrénées Catalanes, and Rivesaltes. “The idea is to remove all barriers to practice, whether they are financial, geographical, or psychological.” Because beyond that, the issue goes beyond mere well-being. It provides a concrete response to a health issue. The challenge now is to make them known and, most importantly, to convince everyone to take that step.
