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STRONGMAN TRAINING AS A MOM WITH A DISABILITY- What It Took to Get to Year 1 Of Competing

4/24/2019

Before I begin........
The story of what led me to strongman training,lets start with a little about what strongman is and is not. I promise, it is not what you think. The sport of strongman is very different than powerlifting, crossfit, or general weight lifting for fitness (although there are similarities). Strongman requires you to train with dumbells, barbells, kettlebells, plates, and strongman medleys (which are basically oddly shaped, heavy objects). Just so you know, this is not an advice column, or an endorsement piece for anyone. This is simply an intimate look at my perspective on the sport as an Amateur athlete. Disclaimer: I am not an expert ins strongman training, or the sport itself.

One of then things that I love about the sport is its exclusivity. Strongman doesnt care where you come from, your looks, or your gender. All that matters when you compete is what you bring to the table. There is no cheating in strongman,there is technique, time and perseverance. Just like any sport there are things athletes can do to improve performance, but steroids wont help you get explosive strength to maintain it for long periods of time when competing for an entire day in multiple events. There is no "posing" or quick route to becoming a strongwomen. It takes time, and several program adjustments, and a good knowledge (with or without) a strongman coach or strongman program. To become a good athlete its not just time in the gym, you have to constantly improve your technique by reading books, watching videos, and practicing with a coach. Yes, these same principles apply to other sports, but you cant hyper speed this process, all that will do will cause injuries for you, and cause you to zero out at your first few novice events.

People often think strongman training is just another extreme form of weight lifting for egocentric purposes, or for women who dont have "other hobbies", or as a mom I have heard before "training for selfish reasons only while neglecting me child". This is very un-true! My training was always second priority over the care of my child, and he was always happily with his Dad on adventures while I hit the gym. His dad and him would be sleeping at home while I hit the gym for late night, exhausting gym sessions.

When I decided I wanted to train for strongman it was after years of battling various challenges in my life, from depression to a long-term genetic, un-curable disability. It came at a time, when I was just casually browsing on facebook and saw a news post about the 1st Annual Strongman Competition in Winnipeg. I had recently finished my first year competing in Scottish Heavy Highland Games, and was looking for another level up sport to train for in the highland games off season. I had trained for years as a dancer, choreographer, and triathlete, and in my early twenties as a body builder. After giving birth to a baby and experiencing partial paralysis and nerve damage from birthing my son naturally I knew training for physique was not going to be a motivation for me. I didnt care if I had 6% body fat and a fake tan,I just wanted to use my natural genetics for strength, my love for holistic lifetime fitness, and passion to fuel me into strongman. I wasent sure if I could do it, and sure as heck didnt know if I would like it, or even be good at it.

It took me a year and a half to get my body to be strong enough to train for highland games to compete 5 times last year. After competing I knew that my body needed a huge overhaul. I was devastated emotionally after I gave birth, worried I would never be able to dance again, never mind be able to lift weights. I hated my body, as I felt it had failed me despite my best efforts to manage my disability, it seemed my lingering lifetime fear of what bearing children would do to my body turned out to be true.

My motivation when I started my self-initiated wellness plan back in 2017 was not to lift weights, but to be able to hold my child and play with him in the park, play sports with him,go bike riding with him, and teach him how to dance. The yearning for this was stronger than my willpower, self doubts, and judgment from others,etc.

Before giving birth to my son I was a size 10 to 12, and after giving birth to him I was a size 22. I felt trapped in my body, and I missed the freedom my thinner body had given me. As I looked in the mirror 7 days post partum with hanging skin from my belly where my son once lived, I knew that I loved this body more for the beautiful son it gave me, and I was not going to let negative thoughts stop me from doing the things with my body I wanted to do.

Which is important, because sometimes we can get so wrapped up in getting a specific look, or a specific lifestyle, friendships, lovers etc when taking control of our fitness and health goals. Its not about that. Its about gaining our mental strength back, loving ourselves by being body positive through the process. Self hatred will not help you get fit or stay fit, as our value to ourselves, the world, and the people we love is not about our looks, its about our QUALITY of life. I say this because having a disability or a baby is not a burden, you are not missing out on the great things in life unless you let it limit you. I refused to accept unhappiness or self defeat whatever challenge I have faced in my life. Its really not about gaining fame, but about being the best person you can be to yourself and the people you care the most about.

The biggest give in life I have and will ever receive is my son. Yes winning in strongman and highland games is a nice goal, but my 5 year wellness plan I created for myself was about the trans formative process, and the ability to achieve the things I set out to do in my "bucket list"

Because I love my son, and knew that I could only love him as much as I loved myself and my life, I made the investment of time, and gave myself a strict but flexible schedule for training. I didnt care if people understood or accepted it, in fact most close family and friends warned against it.

TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA OF THE PROCESS, AND HOW LONG IT TOOK ME TO GET WHERE I AM NOW:
2016 (Fall) - Gave birth to my son in November. With barely enough strength to clean, my exercise consisted of me going for walks at IKEA, Superstore, and short 15 min walks in my neighhbourhood with my sons stroller.

2017 (Spring) - Began walking 30 to 45mins 2 to 3 days a week with my son in his stroller, and taking him swimming 2 days a week at the local pool. Began doing light yoga, block therapy, and resistance training at home once a week or more.

2017 (Fall)- Began teaching dance 3 days a week for 2 to 5 hour sessions at a time. Block therapy and light yoga at home 3 days a week for 45mins a session.

2018 (Spring) -Began bicycling 4 to 5 days per week for 30 min to 1 hour per day pulling my son in his attached bike trailer. Kept teaching dance and practicing dance 3 days per week for 2 to 4 hour sessions. Continued with block training once to two days per week at home in the afternoon when my son was sleeping.

2018 (Summer) - Began doing lightweight kettle bell functional training combined with resistance band training at home 3 days per week for 2 hours in the afternoon while my son napped. Kept dancing and teaching 3 days per week for 2 to 4 hour sessions in the evening. Started competing in the sport of scottish heavy highland games, and did my first 5 competitions, winning one of them, and placing second and third in the others.

2018 (Fall) - In September I joined the gym again so I could have access to heavier weights and sold my at home gym equipment to my friend. Began doing functional training with Kettlebells, dumb bells, and large muscle group gym machines.

2019 (January) - Began doing Barbell Training, harder Kettle Bell functional training, and started using sleds and large tire workouts at the gym.

2019 (March) - Purchased my first strongman training book among a few others, and spent hours reading articles, and watching webinars and talks from various strongman athletes, and coaches to begin experimenting and improving my barbell technique, overall muscle endurance, and explosive strength. Started pulling and pushing 90% maximum loads with sleds, throwing sandbags, and doing the Barbell workouts that are the hardest and scariest to try on your own for the first timeby yourself.

2019 (May) - Purchased more stretching techniques book for the Strongman athlete. Began to push for complete stability in the core by doing deficit workouts with barbells, kettlebells, sandbags, etc

2019 (June)- Began pushing harder into endurance workouts with sled pushes and pulls, kettle bell platform lifts, sandbag throws/carrys/ and runs working 2-3 x 100ft. sets. And endurance reps of 8 to 12 per set of lifts over head.

2019 (July) - Began focusing training on working with specific lifting, push pull events of my first strongman competition the MB- Classic by joining its host gym - Brick House Gym. Hadnt touched a yoke carry, atlas stone, log or axle bar deadlift until then.

2019 (August) - First Amateur strongman competition, didnt place. 2 weeks later did my second strongman competition with different implements and placed 3rd! Did a car dead lift and truck pull for the first time and had the fastest time with 80 feet in 51 seconds pulling a 1/2 ton truck. Honestly was terrified of these two events, and was blown away that I was able to do this. Yayyeee deadlifts and sled pulls as much as I couldnt walk the next day after my strongman saturday trainings, it was totally worth it!

Some of the challenges of training have been two significant injuries, that I thought were gonna inflate any chance I had at competing. My first injury was a sprained back doing my regular 70% Max load RPM in a trap bar farmers carry, and the second was an overhead press gone wrong where I had to throw the barbell onto my leg for it not to fall backwards on me and crush me. Sounds scary right? Not really, it just hurt more, now I have a beautiful dent in my left shin. Ok, DON'T LET THAT CONFESSION SCARE YOU FROM TRAINING! These injuries literally happened because I was tired, and rushing my workouts those days even though I felt sick going to the gym. The most valuable lesson I have learned out of this is to listen to, and respect your body, no matter what! Also, it was a kind of
ridiculously ambitious goal of mine to literally start training with barbells for the first time in my life, and enter an amateur (not even novice) strongman competition 9 months later!

So my advice to you is give yourself at least one full year to do solid training for strongman, and start with the following books (in this order) to learn the nuances of this sport. As much as a personal trainer may provide helpful basic advice, strongman training is VERY unique, and best programmed by those who have been, and currently are in the sport. I have bought these books and legit, would have no idea what I was doing without them!
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/train-strongman-regular-gym/
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/mobility-manual-upper-body/
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/cubecyborg/
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/built-mike-proven-programming-strongman-athlete/
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/strong-pretty-program/
https://store.startingstrongman.com/product/unbreakable-strongman/

So what did I gain out of this? Amazing new friends, better mental/ physical/ emotional health, and quite honestly better character as a human. Training for this put my whole life into balance and helped me budget well and manage my time with my son, family, friends, and my business better. Now all I desire
is for women and mothers to discover their inner power and potential from training for strongman even if your goal is not to win worlds, or compete provincially. Training for strongman does things for your soul that Im not sure if all sports do, all I know is I have never been more happy then when training for strongman, and this is coming from someone who is honestly addicted to dance and spends WAYYYYY to much on dance shoes and clothes. Dont believe me? Ask my husband and Amazon, or just look inside his wallet.

Oh, and I got to share my story on TV! That was really cool. Training for strongman was extremley challenging as the only person in my gym male or female that was doing so until the last month of my training. Of which I sprained my neck and ankle while pushing into my maxes a few days before after having a cold my toddler passed onto me for 3 weeks before.

TV INTERVIEW: https://globalnews.ca/video/5712499/competitors-get-ready-for-the-manitoba-classic-strongman-competition

My point is I did not quit, and this was one of the best decisions I ever made for my life. I would love to see more women in the gym smashing those gains, and lifting barbells. Wanna hit the gym?

TRUCK PULL: https://www.facebook.com/PerformingArtsInnovation/videos/652807365206279/
CAR DEADLIFT: https://www.facebook.com/PerformingArtsInnovation/videos/503018296908716/

Written by- Stephanie Strugar

DON'T LET LIFE DEFEAT YOU. SHOW YOUR'S WHOS BOSS ;)

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GET LIVE on YouTube with Def.Up Dance Crew Dec.3rd.2018 for International Day of Person's with Disabilities

11/29/2018

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We invite you to join Def.Up Dance Crew to join the #GetLIVE Canada-Wide, National Movement to create a more inclusive dance industry. Attend our **FREE** Tutorial of the #GetLIVE Choreography Dec.3rd.2018 at Young Lungs Dance Studio located in Video Pool at 100 Arthur Street, Winnipeg, MB from 6pm to 7pm. At the end of the dance class if you are interested, Def.Up welcome you to perform on YouTube LIVE Stream at 6:55pm to 7pm to celebrate Canada's diversity and inclusivity.

We welcome donated to help sponsor the costs of developing this project by donating $5 or more more at the door. You can also purchase one of the many Official Def.Up T-Shirt Designs through Def. Up's online google form for only $35 per shirt. Make a stand today with us and join this global movement!

Can't make it in person? Take a video of yourself performing the #GetLIVE Choreography and upload it to YouTube with the title #GetLIVE between Dec.3rd.2018 and Dec.6th.2018 and you will be automatically entered to win an Official Def.Up T-Shirt! Draw will be made Dec.6th.2018 at midnight and will be announced on Facebook on Def.Up Dance Crew's page. T Shirt will be shipped to to the winner.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
www.facebook.com/Def.UpDeafDanceCrew/
www.facebook.com/1spirit1love/

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE EVENT HERE:
www.facebook.com/events/2154709058113196/?notif_t=plan_user_joined&notif_id=1543520007873013

FOR MEDIA INQUIRES OR QUESTIONS CONTACT:
Stephanie P: 204.894.1075 E: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com

TO FOLLOW OUR STORY ON CBC AND CTV:
www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/def-up-dance-troupe-stereotypes-1.4917479

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Get LIVE! Deaf Dance Crew Choreography Project

9/28/2018

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5CALLING DANCERS AGES 13+ FOR VIDEO OPPORTUNITY!

About GetLive Project
GetLIVE Project is all about the creation of groundbreaking dance choreography performed by DeafDancers via LIVEYouTube Stream. Deaf Dancers will learn choreography to various hip hop songs that promote positivity, empowerment, inclusivity, and cultural appreciation. Dancers who apply and are accepted will spend 5, 1 Hour dance sessions learning dance choreography that they will perform for YouTube on the 5th session. Deaf Dancers will have their hair and makeup professional done on the day of filming in partnership with ArtWithSas, and other Deaf production artists and technicians from Manitoba. Difinity Dance believes all Artists should feel sassy and classy on stage whether or not they are differently abled. ASL Interpreters will be on site to transale communication between Choreographer and Deaf Dancers. Stephanie will be creating a final report by working with MB Researchers on How Deaf Dancers quality of lives improved from participatin in this project.

Stephanie Strugar has created this project with the goals of:
1. Creating empowering professional dance opportunities for deaf performers
2. Promoting dignity, ability, and potential of deaf performers
3. Promoting ASL as an official language
4. Removing stigma's and barriers deaf performers face in the performance industry.

About the Choreographer
Stephanie Strugar has started this project after researching deaf and disabled opportunities for training and performing in Manitoba, and found that there were not consistent opportunities for these performers to engage in professional opportunities in theatre, film, and TV. As a person with an invisible disability she understands the barriers and challenges disabled performers face in education and performance opportunities, and desires to open minds of audiences locally and globally.

How To Get Involved
Performers:
STEP 1: Apply via google form here.
Dancers who are accepted will be sent an acceptance letter.

STEP 2: Dancer is then expected to confirm their participation via email to: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com and provide the tuition fee of $85.00 at time of registration in order to participate. Depending on sponsorship level, dancers depending on income level will have their tuition reimbursed.

STEP 3: Attend rehearsals on said dates.

WHO THE PROJECT IS OPEN TO:
Dancers ages 8 and up from across Manitoba who identify as Deaf. Dancers who are able to learn choreography in a fast paced environment and can rehearse choreography from rehearsals at their own pace at home.

TUITION FEE:
$45 Registration Fee (This goes towards the cost of videography, photography, graphic design of T-shirts, honorarium)
$30 Deaf Dance Crew T-Shirt Fee
$10 Costuming/ Hair & Makeup Fee
Total: $85.00
****Choreographer and the space has been generously sponsored to make this project happen. Depending on the level of public and private sponsorship we receive for this project, some dancers will receive a reimbursement for their tuition depending on income level.****

CALL FOR VIDEOGRAPHER/ PHOTOGRAPHER
We are seeking 1 photographer, and 1 videographer to be present from 1:30pm to 2:00pm on Filming Day to capture this project. Preference will be given to Deaf Digital Artists, and Deaf students. This project is non-union, volunteer orientated. Honorarium's may be available dependant on the level of sponsorship we receive for this project.

CALL FOR MAKEUP ARTISTS/ HAIR STYLISTS
We are seeking 1 to 2 makeup artists and hair stylists to do the hair and makeup of dancers on the day of filming at Difinity Dance Studio and Productions in preparation of filming. Preference will be given to deaf stylists and artists. This project is non-union, volunteer orientated. Honorarium's may be available dependant on the level of sponsorship we receive for this project.

Interested makeup artists, hair stylists, videographers and photographers can submit their interest in writing to: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com or Contact: Stephanie S for more information.

HERE'S WHERE OUR INSPIRATION COMES FROM:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/8051385/Born-deaf-but-also-born-to-dance.html

FOLLOW THE EVENT ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES
www.facebook.com/events/289346811897053/

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PINK KILT- In The Land of Blue- (Women Throwing in Scottish Heavy Games)

9/28/2018

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Journey to Heavy Games (2018- 2018):

My journey to Scottish games begun with one very simple, but humble mission in mind; to be able to pick up my child. When my baby was born at 8lbs 13 ounces, I never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would become paralyzed from complications due to my epid-dural and episiotomy.

To think I was a size 10/12 dancer, triathlete,and yoga enthusiast before and to pregnancy to become a size 22 post partum, it was a hard pill to swallow. It was not the size of my body that was my issue, it was the absolute loss of control over it, something I had never experienced before. Nothing in this world is more humbling, scary, or sad than to not be able to hold your own child.

I am now a happy, healthy size 16/18 Scottish Heavy games athlete, who is training for strongman. It has been a long, hard, two years that started with me learning to walk again to be now training for my first local strongman competition taking place Aug.5th.2019. I never thought Id get here, but my un relenting determination to be able to have no limitations when playing with, and holding my son has taken me this far. Although 2019 is my second year of competing, I will again walk on the field sporting my pink kilt, now with a renewed mind and sense of hope.

So what does a pink kilt mean in the land of blue, where the Heavy Games has traditionally been a male dominated sport? Well for me as a mom it has multiple layers beyond the throw for personal glory.

Women have traditionally been told to train in the gym for aesthetics, and to lift to tone, not for strength. So much of our lives is dominated by our usefulness to our family, especially once we bare children.

Choosing to participate in Scottish Heavy Games was a dramatic turn in my life, where I decided to take risks by taking control of my health back in winter of 2016.

The MB. Sports Celtic Association was hosting a couple of practices to introduce new amateur athletes to the sport in summer of 2018, and I decided my body was ready to try.
There was no guarantee I would be any good, or not get hurt, but I trusted the association athletic director, and fellow athletes to ensure I did not get hurt.

The journey to get to that first practice was not about fit into a certain pair of pants, or to have abbs. Besides the goal of playing and holding my child, I also wanted to celebrate and learn about my Scottish Heritage. Of which my mom's side is the Elliot Clan that is a direct royal blood line. The reasons of choosing this sport stemmed from much deeper pain, and the goal of breaking those stereotypical teachings I had experienced growing up.

My self esteem suffered as a child in many ways from being raised to fit into a small traditional box of what my gender could/ could not do, and what I was not allowed to do. I was taught that a women's place was in the kitchen, and my worth came from my ability to be a good wife and mother someday. All of which are qualities that I hold close to my heart, and have not sacrificed along this journey.

Although I excelled in traditional gender role related activites for women, I always had an interest in what was considered reserved for boys. Activites such as archery, riflery, fishing, skidooing, quadding, dirtbiking, motorbiking, riding horses, swimming, racing cars, football, etc. Time and time again when I attempted to puruse these activities as a young country girl I was only allowed to do "so much", so I "wouldnt get hurt". Now I am not saying there is anything wrong with a woman wanting to do any activity, and Im not interested in political or religoes debates on this subject. However, Im simply stating that I was seen as a tomboy, and my friends were always boys growing up.

I was told it was inapproproate to my gender, and being a tomboy would never land me a husband, children, or career success. Turned out all of that was wrong. Once I had the following three I decided to explore the thirst I had for adventure as a child even more. I truly believe a good parent is a happy parent who practices self care always, and inspires their childrenby leading by example. I do not neglect my household, career duties, or needs of my child to pursue adventure. However, you can brilliantly do both, if your intentions are well.

Walking into my first game at the Red River Exhibition Park for the first game of the season summer 2018 was an unknown, scary experiment for me, but thankfully its paid off.
I went through a wide range of emotions my first year, and asked myself the following questions:

What if I lost it all? The respect and love of my husband,community, and child for pursueing this endeavour?
Am I selfish for doing this for me with my child being just over a year old, does that make me a bad mom?
What if I seriously hurt myself when throwing, after all Im not super fit since having my son?
What if I break the equipment because Im so tired from taking care of my son all day?
What if I totally suck at this and the investment of equipment, and practicing time all goes to waste?
Should I be focusing more on my career and wait till my son is older and I have more money and time before I pursue this?

What Actually Happened My 1st Season of Throwing:
Throwing challenged me to face my fears, and insecurities head on. None of my fellow athletes male or female were making excuses for me, and encouraged me to remove all negative thoughts I had, and to simply show up early, and finish the job. 8 hours in the sun throwing things over and over again will really test your will.

There were many times when life at home became very challenging for me, and I was not sure if I could remain involved in the sport. The fact that my fellow athletes did not encourage me to quit until my son was older, and told me to leave my problems at home was actually very helpful. I came home happier as I had some much needed "me time", eventhough I missed my son like crazy.

It also encouraged me to become more efficient at home, and with my home based business. I knew if I did not take care of my responsibilities first I would not have time to attend a game, and it was unfair to dump my responsibilities on my husband. As my home life by default became more organised through intentional planning, and a more structured lifestyle I became more efficient, energetic, and determined to make sure every moment with my son was quality time.

Turns out the mind body connection is true when training as a mom. My gym training and healthier eating made me better at studying my online courses, and prepping my curriculumns for the classes I was teaching. As an added bonus my entire body composition dramatically improved. I lost weight, built muscle, and my skin/ hair over all physical attributes did get better. Just ask my husband, although thats not what thisis about.

The healthier person you become, the better parent you transform into. Whether it is strongman or scottish heavy games you are training for, the commitment requires sacrifice, and strong personal boundaries. As such, you begin to notice and self filter negative behavior patterns, and toxic people or places from your life. This is so important, as everything you do as a parent when your kids are at a young age, sets the tone for their entire life into adulthood. In order to have the energy to train I had to make sure I got lots of sleep, and spent every part of my day wisely, slowly but surely I began to "get out of my own way", by "cutting the toxic" out of my life.

These decisions made a huge positive impact on my sons life. Routine and structure became a very important part of our daily life. This included feeding, napping, free play, reading, outside exercise, indoor exercise time for my 1 year old. It got me off my couch, and back into life, where my son could experience the world. Post partum depression, loneliness, and general anxiety is a big thing for many moms, and it was certainly for me. The Scottish games changed all of that for me, and the people around me.

Not only does this sport inspire people I am close too, but also women who I dont know personally who see me train or compete.

This is what participating in pink in the land of blue has done for the women around me

1. Inspiring women to not filter and rate their self worth through a number on a scale, their ability to fit into a specific dress size, or follow an unhealthy diet that leads to disordered eating habits.

2. Inspiring women to recognize their body as more than a physical object, but instead to view themselves as a trophy for them to celebrate, and a tool to use in their life to get the best quality of.

3. Inspiring men and women to see women accomplish more than they may have been raised to think women were capable of.

4. Inspiring women to pursue self discipline, and higher life goals for themselves if they so which to besides just being a "stay at home mom" if they so choose to have that goal.

What Scottish Heavy Games Has Done For Me:
It has instilled an un-shake-able confidence in myself as I am doing things with my body I never thought I could. Growing up in a household that was predominately a baptist, male dominated, trades/ small business family where women were to "sit and talk pretty".

I have found and finalized my inner voice, advocating for those who don't have access to this sport because of disability, economic challenges, etc.

I want all women, people with disabilities, single moms, and anyone who feels trapped by their circumstances to believe they have the ability to soar like an Eagle.

What A Kilt Means To Me Know:
Kilts are as diverse as the rainbow in the sky. In fact, as time goes on they become more adaptable to every body type to be inclusive to modern people for a variety of uses. There are various designs for various purposes and people. Everyone CAN wear a kilt with pride and honor. The kilt represents strength, self independence , family pride, and much more.

I encourage you wherever you are to take on the KILT method of life. Whether you plan to play scottish heavy games or not. Let the freedom from feeling the wind breeze through your kilt allow you to live your life to the full. We all have challenges in your life but they dont have to stop you from living within those limitations.

Some people may rather I dont wear my pink kilt, but part of finding your voice is realizing you don't need other peoples approval to live your life in a way that will be positive for you and the people you care about the most. When I took the time to hand sew it, and painfully draw on (without a ruler I might add) all the black lines according the the Elliot Clan pattern, every line was done with intent.

I like to think of the Elliots as a bunch of roudy scottish people who enjoy the guitar, drinks, and tons of food, but we are also farmers, business people, union presidents, and people who care about our local and international community. We honour the land and the animals we raise through keeping our traditional teachings.

I began the Scottish games to learn about my heritage too pass it on to my now 2 year old son. It all started when I volunteered one year as the Emcee for Folklorama Scottish Pavilion in 2015. I heard about the Heavy Games at the Pavilion and although I didnt have an initial interest in the sport, I felt looking into it I would learn more about myself. Just like when I hear the bagpipes, when I throw for the sport I feel fully alive.

My first practice I cried, and I will never forget all the male athletes swarming around me to offer words of support and encouragement.

How To Increase Accessibility to the Sport for Women and Persons with a Disability:

Remember that we are all stronger, better athletes when we make the playing field fair no matter the differences between us. I believe the games are not just about reaching your next personal best but about passing down wisdom to the next generation of athletes, and sharing Scottish pride with all people. It should never matter where you come from, but where the field is taking you.

Providing activities at your event for athletes with children, and shading from the sun for audiences with disabilities, ASL Interpreters, and and wheelchair accessibility to the field is a great place to start.

How To Get Connected With the Sport Locally:
https://www.facebook.com/ManitobaAssociationOfCelticSports/
For the Manitoba region you can find the sport at Manitoba Celtic Sports Association on Facebook (above)

For other Canadian Provinces check out the Canadian Federation of Celtic Sports:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/196826321647/
http://www.csaf.ca/

E-Book I recommend to Get Started:
https://www.throwbros.com/products/throwing-lab-by-matt-vincent-e-book

SEASON 2: LONG LIVE THE PINK KILT!
As I enter this season (2019), I am excited to learn more as I begin to practice with my new practice equipment I made below. This was another exercise in empowerment, that truly made me understand and appreciate the science behind throwing.

I look forward to seeing you on the field this season as an athlete, friend, or fan. If you ever have any questions, or would like to share your feedback on this article I would love to hear from you by commenting below.

Want to try the sport? Or learn how to make your own equipment like this or order it feel free to send me an email.

Article By: Stephanie AE Strugar

As Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz was told to follow the yellow brick road while she pondered what was over the rainbow, I encourage you to get on the road.

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**NEW WHEELCHAIR DANCE CLASSES By DDSP!

6/11/2018

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Our goal is to break down the barriers performers face in accessing performance arts education and entertainment. We have partnered with the Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf and Arts and Accessibility Network of Manitoba this Fall to bring Beginner to Intermediate Deaf Dance classes in HipHop, Latin, and African-Caribbean genres.We fuse traditional cultural dances with cirque and modern street dance techniques to provide you the student or performer with the most innovative dance education possible. Contact us for more information.

Why are we offering Wheel Chair Dance Classes
Our Artistic Director has an invisible disability, and understands the challenges a person faces when integrating their own identity and style into a performance arts world that is still learning about disability, and the potential of their artisitic abilities. Difinity Dance was founded to break performer stereotypes and create performance and education opportunities for people with a wide-range of disabilities. We believe the audience, and disabled/ non-disabled performers alike deserve to discover the unique and beautiful choreography abilities just waiting to be explored.

"I dream of a world where we just see beauty in every single person with an open mind and heart." - Stephanie Strugar

When will the dance classes be?
We are looking to offer classes on tuesdays or thursdays between 6pm to 7pm or 7pm to 8pm.Classes are offered in 6 week consecutive sessions for Beginners, and 8 week consecutive sessions for intermediate students. Students will be exposed to a wide range of techniques within the program session. Classes will be held in the Osbourne/ Fort Rouge Area and Downtown Winnipeg Fall 2018, mid August.

How do I get involved before then?
Volunteer! Volunteers receive 30% off of class tuition, dancewear and costume orders. Volunteers can submit their skill sets to our production team in the areas of graphic design, photography, videography, hair styling, makeupartistry, and more. We believe time has a value. Volunteers must volunteer with us a minimum of 2 weeks before classes begin to qualify for discount.

What will be in the dance classes?
Students will learn group choreography in various modern and traditional dance theatre arts including street and contemporarey dance excluding Ballet.

Who will be teaching the dance classes?
Our Founder Stephanie Strugar and our Adult Dance Crew Difini Dolls.

How much are classes?
6 Week Beginner Class Passes are $90 (Including ASL) Regular Rate or $75.00 (Including ASL) if purchased by August 1st.2018.
*Class passes are non-transferable*
8 Week Intermediate Class Passes are $115 (Including ASL) Regular Rate or $90 (Including ASL) if purchased by August.1st.2018

How do I register?
Email us your interest, and specify which day/ time of the week you are available. We will then send you the confirmed class schedule for you to send your registration in via e-transfer to:difini.dancecrews@gmail.com. *Must be willing to sign a standard Exercise Liability Release Waiver and have appropriate dance/ fitness wear and shoes to participate in class. If under the age of 18 a Parent/ Gaurdian must fill out the registration form to participate in class.*

Can I perform?
Difinity Dance hosts 2-3 large productions a year, and showcases for various corporate, charitable, and community events across MB. If you are interested in performing as a Guest Artist in one of our productions, or joining our Dance Crew for a 3 month minimum term you can submit and audition video via YouTubelink. All performers interested in joining our dance Crews Difini Dolls and Difini Mini's must volunteer with us or be a prior dance student within our company.To learn more about our dance crew please visit:

www.ddsp.ca/perform.html
www.ddsp.ca/difini-crews-portfolio.html
Stephanie Strugar- Artistic Director
Difinity Dance Studio & Productions- Founded 2008
P: 204.894.1075
E: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com
W: www.ddsp.ca

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NEW ADULT DEAF DANCE CLASSES @ DIFINITY DANCE in WINNIPEG, MB FALL 2018!

6/11/2018

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Our goal is to break down the barriers performers face in accessing performance arts education and entertainment. We have partnered with the Manitoba Cultural Society of the Deaf and Arts and Accessibility Network of Manitoba this Fall to bring Beginner to Intermediate Deaf Dance classes in HipHop, Latin, and African-Caribbean genres.We fuse traditional cultural dances with cirque and modern street dance techniques to provide you the student or performer with the most innovative dance education possible. Contact us for more information.

Why are we offering Deaf Dance Classes?
Our Artistic Director has an invisible disability, and understands the challenges a person faces when integrating their own identity and style into a performance arts world that is still learning about disability, and the potential of their artisitic abilities. Difinity Dance was founded to break performer stereotypes and create performance and education opportunities for people with a wide-range of disabilities.

When will the dance classes be?
We are looking to offer classes on tuesdays or thursdays between 6pm to 7pm or 7pm to 8pm.Classes are offered in 6 week consecutive sessions for Beginners, and 8 week consecutive sessions for intermediate students. Students will be exposed to a wide range of techniques within the program session. Classes will be held in the Osbourne/ Fort Rouge Area and Downtown Winnipeg Fall 2018, mid August.

How do I get involved before then?
Volunteer! Volunteers receive 30% off of class tuition, dancewear and costume orders. Volunteers can submit their skill sets to our production team in the areas of graphic design, photography, videography, hair styling, makeupartistry, and more. We believe time has a value. Volunteers must volunteer with us a minimum of 2 weeks before classes begin to qualify for discount.

How much are classes?
6 Week Beginner Class Passes are $90 (Including ASL) Regular Rate or $75.00 (Including ASL) if purchased by August 1st.2018.
*Class passes are non-transferable*
8 Week Intermediate Class Passes are $115 (Including ASL) Regular Rate or $90 (Including ASL) if purchased by August.1st.2018

How do I register?
Email us your interest, and specify which day/ time of the week you are available. We will then send you the confirmed class schedule for you to send your registration in via e-transfer to:difini.dancecrews@gmail.com. *Must be willing to sign a standard Exercise Liability Release Waiver and have appropriate dance/ fitness wear and shoes to participate in class. If under the age of 18 a Parent/ Gaurdian must fill out the registration form to participate in class.*

Stephanie Strugar- Artistic Director
Difinity Dance Studio & Productions- Founded 2008
P: 204.894.1075
E: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com
W: www.ddsp.ca

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DDSP DIFINI MINI CAMPS In Carberry MB Summer 2018

3/7/2018

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We are all shaped by our experiences growing up; what we see and the feedback we
receive from our peers, teachers, family and friends. It is through these experiences that we learn
to define ourselves; we recognize how we are perceived by the people in our lives and we slowly
realize what traits or attributes set us apart from the rest. It can be a difficult discovery for some,
especially when you start to realize how different you are from what you perceive as the ‘ideal’.

The ideal is something we all struggle with, especially when you’re young without a lot of
experiences to draw from or the resources to examine what a defined ideal should look like.
Self discovery is a big part of what makes community arts programming so valuable, the
ability to discover through artistic experience the beauty and truth within you, that has the power
to inspire pride, to reveal, and to heal. It is with this spirit that the Carberry Plains Arts Council
is pleased to announce its newest workshop facilitator Stephanie Ann Strugar. Strugar is a
choreographer, dance and fitness educator, model, actress, comedian, and certified body painter
who has worked closely with community organizations to provide innovative performance
education for; at-risk youth, indigenous and immigrant youth, differently-abled youth and adults,
and the elderly.

In 2008 Strugar founded Difinity Dance Studios based in Winnipeg and began
collaborating with schools and daycares in the area to provide programming that challenges
youth to take action in their lives, empowering them with the language of movement to
communicate and be heard across diverse cultural and social-economical boarders. By 2010
Stephanie became a public advocate dedicated to breaking performer stereotypes, mentoring and
working with plus sized performers. By 2013 she was chosen by RAW.org as a featured artist
for her work with Difini Dolls Dance Crew, and Difini Minis a group of youth dancers that
promote “anti bullying” in their performance work, performances by Difini Minis are used to
fundraise and sponsor at-risk youth for free multi-cultural dance classes.

The project Stephanie Ann Strugar will be providing to children and youth here in the
community will be a week-long mini dance camp dedicated to showing participants what is
possible; through her mentorship skills Strugar’s goal is to provide innovative and integrated
performance education that improves participants confidence and inspires the experience of self
discovery, because like “the bright colors found in nature, there are vibrant creatures that reside
in us”
This program is generously supported by Healthy Together Now and the Carberry and
Area Community Foundation. Special thanks to Sherill-Lee Hyra of Prairie Mountain for all her
support. We look forward to hosting Stephanie Ann Strugar at the end of July.
Registration for this program will be available at mass registration at Carberry Plains
Community Centre March 21 st and 22 nd . For details about this program feel free to contact
Carberry Plains Arts Council at crbyarts@wcgwave, or call the office which is open Tuesdays
and Thursdays 9am-5pm at 204-834- 6617.

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LADIES EMPOWERMENT DANCE CLASSES & PHOTO SHOOT

3/7/2018

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ALL WOMEN ARE... "HEAD2TOEBEAUTIFUL" Photoshoot Project

For most of women's lives they struggle to seperate their indentity as a person from their looks. Meaning, they see the supposed flaws on their bodies as something to be changed, removed, and hidden. Difini Dolls Dance Crew Classes aims to change that. They offer a safe place for women ages 18+ to discover their bodies grace, flexibility, and strength by challenging their own negative oppinions of themselves. Difini Dolls Dance Crew Dance Class teachers aim to create a positive self-talk dialogue in the class room thrugh positive words of encouragement and affirmation in a body positive space.

The Founder of Difini Dolls Dance Crew Stephanie Strugar, struggled with a poor self image and struggled with an eating disorder even though she was active since her childhood through sports, dance, and outdoor fitness. Often she would hold her self back from related opportunities because she felt that she would not be accepted in her body. Stephanie is a certified group fitness leader, and a dance fitness instructor with 10 years experience her physical disability made a huge impact on how she views the Arts. Since childhood her disability challenged her to approach dance and fitness differently in a way that would be fulfilling. "When you dance you feel free, you are temporarily able to move outside your bodies supposed limitations." says Stephanie. She does not conform with media's beauty standards, and is focused on providing her students with whole body health knowledge based on experience.

"To see students transform like a butterfly, becoming more confident and self ware creating a healthier mind and body is the best reward." I believe dance technqiue and fitness can be accessible and still a work of art." says Stephanie

Many of Difini Dolls Crew dance students start as volunteers with the company, and some end up performing and competing with Difinity Dance. These women in these classes are from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds, as well as ages and abilities. Difinity Dance's mandate is to ensure cross cultural, cross generational, and truth and reconciliation teachings are always apart of their classes. They hope to create a conversation about what dance was, is, and can be for women who express themselves positively through dance.

Recently, Difini Dolls Dance Crew decided to offer a photo shoot for their dance classes students to show them how much they have come alive in the duration of time with Difinity Dance. "We wanted to capture the transformation in their face and body post classes, like a scrapbook memory of the moment when they realized they are unstoppably beautiful." says Stephanie.

"Head2ToeBeautiful" shoot is being generously sponsored by (www.facebook.com/deadshotphotography/ owner DezaraeeGill. Dez is a recent graduate of PrairieView Photography School, she started a podcast called "Find Your Worth" (www.findyourworthvys.ca) A podcast dedicated to helping teens and young adults discover their worth by sharing and interviewing everyday Winnipegers. Theseare the stories of a variety of people who have experienced or are currently experiencing some type of barrier that has affected their mental health. Whether it's through bullying, depression, societal expectations, and many others.

All Difini Dolls Dance Crew students who purchase a 4 week, 6 week, or 8 week class pass are eligible for this Amazing opportunity. To learn more about our classes visit: www.ddsp.ca/adult-classes.html

1 HEAD2TOEBEAUTIFUL Photoshoot Coupon which includes:

1 custom Burlesque/ Glam personalized 30-45 min photo shoot
Pin Up Hair & Makeup Artistry (@studio)
Pick 3 Looks from our GLAM CATALOGUE ( Props provided)
Professional Pin Up/ Glam modeling coaching
Online Photo Gallery with 15
REDEEM COUPON FOR: $90 per person/ $250 Value!

Date of PhotoShoot: (By Appointment Only)
April. 21st 5pm to 10pm
Location: Aspire Professional Photography Studio Inc.
289 King St. Wpg.MB
What to bring: Classic inspired Lingerie or Pin Up Outfits & Costumes (Whatever makes you feel empowered)
How to register: Purchase your pass & pay for your shoot by e-transfer to: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com
Event Link on facebook: www.facebook.com/events/558949114473719/

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DANCE & COMPETITION FOR DISABLED PERFORMERS- How to Create An Inclusive Dance Space - 7 Tips

2/11/2018

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As a Choreographer, and Dance Educator with a disability, I have made it my mission to create a more inclusive dance space for emerging performance artists in my province and country. It all starts with a humble initiative to change the way disability and dance is viewed in our community.

Have you ever wondered where people with disabilities who dance are,and why they are not provided a category at a dance festival or competition to perform or compete? Many times choreographers, educators, and even audience members will point this point out from time to time, but what are we doing to change that? How are we contributing to the inclusion of performer's with disabilities?

It starts at providing them a space or division to compete or perform in. This is really not hard to to, yet it is not as common as a stretch and strength flexibility element at your event. This could be the case for a variety of reasons, but the reasons only matter if you want to be one of the people who helps performers with a disability #GetOnTheScene.
What is important to ponder about is how you will manage adding this category to your event, not whether a person with a disability will apply, or how many. It is pretty rare for a performer or educator with a disability to reach out to you, so putting the word out that you are looking for people within this category is a great place to start.

If you do not know any performers or educators with a disability within your area, reach out to your peers, then consider using online platforms to find someone in another province or country. Of course there is a possibility that emerging performers and choreographers exist in your area and you or your peers just dont know about them.
In that case, YouTube and Instagram are great resources for finding emerging artists and choreographers who are trying to #GetOnTheScene . The truth is, as this is still a category that is "opening up", most artists that you find will be at the emerging level, but this is not a bad thing! They most likely have amazing potential that has not been harnessed due to barriers they face in accessing inclusive dance education and performance opportunities. People often say "well how do we know if they are out there, and if they will want to participate?" Well, you wont know until you Reach out.

The potential to create amazing collaborations with diverse artists is right in our finger tips, but it starts with changing our views of what constitutes a disability, and what we want it to look like to us. Let's look at some examples shall we?

Example #1: Dancer A, uses a wheelchair to dance as she can not walk, but she can still move her body to the music. Dancer B,learns how to dance alongside Dancer A without using a wheelchair in a collaborative duo
Example #2: Dancer A, uses a wheelchair to dance as she can not walk, but she can still move her body to the music. Dancer B, learns how to dance alongside Dancer A by learning how to dance in a wheelchair by dancing in one.

Who says only a person with a disability can dance in a wheelchair? Or the dancer in the wheelchair as to have a disability at all? A person does not have to have the same disability or a disability at all to find creative connection and inspiration with a person who has one. In our attempt to hyper understand every disability that exists, we miss the point. Think of any medical or sport related device a person with a disability uses or does not use as just another prop or creative element you can work into your choreography or techniques. It is time to move out of the boxes and labels we put on each other of what we think each other "can", and "can not do",to "possibilities within a time context."

When we look at life through another person's lens, we discover beauty within the spectrum of dance. So let's begin this new dance, shall we? All it takes is a little role reversal, and imagination. Just like many women are competing as leads in ballroom and various social dancing styles, the roles can be reversed the same way in dance.

Before you worry about what you will teach, or they will teach as you become more inclusive, focus on opening that door with an open call. For tips on how you can make your event or venue more inclusive please visit this other article I wrote packed with great tips from a fresh perspective:
http://www.ddsp.ca/blog/dance-disability-what-is-the-definition-and-how-to-create-a-more-inclusive-dance-space-for-disabled-dancers

Now that you have decided that you would like to make your event or venue more inclusive to performers and educators with disabilities, how do you evaluate your processes? This thought can be overwhelming when trying to figure out where to start, but determining whether or not you will sell enough tickets for this category should NEVER cross your mind. Once again, just because a person does not have a disability or a disability that is the same as the educator or choreographer with a disability, DOES NOT mean they will not participate in that category. The more diversity dancers receive in their training the better performers they will be. Whether you are planning a class, workshop, or festival for emerging to semi professional artists or drop in recreation programs the same principles below will apply.

Yes, we all love to use the most known artists to draw a large crowd to our events, but there IS space within the ticket category for artists and audiences with disabilities. Never under-estimate the power of a community to make a stand for something they believe in. So how can you make your dance space for accessible?

Here are 7 great tips to get you started:

1. Try to hire a Judge that has a disability for your competition for a more balanced perspective on the floor, whether or not you have opened a category for performer's with a disability or not.

2. Try to hire a Choreographer or Educator with a disability that will offer an inclusive class for students with or without a disability.

3. Start offering classes that focus on teaching different types of dance using the integrated method, train educators you have that do not have a disability, and look for ones that do to lead the class. Apprenticeship and cross-training is a great place to start.

4. Reach out to organisations that provide leisure and recreation services to person's with different disabilities to offer classes, workshops, apprenticeship, and performing opportunities at an emerging/ beginner level to get started.

5. Add a Adaptive Category to your dance festival, competition and event. You do not need to be specific on the type of disability as that may create a barrier, as disabilities exist on a spectrum. A performers talent, potential, and hard work should give them the opportunity besides the artistic merit. Whatever disability they have is simply just a part of their story.

6. Dance IS a sport, providing small performance opportunities outside of large productions are STILL opportunities. If you can, provide "growth" opportunities to performers. Just like a sport there are various divisions within a category. If we really want to see the potential of dancers with a disability flourish, we need to provide "expansion" opportunities for them.

7. Dont sweat the small stuff. Ask questions, seek advice, request feedback. Make your space a safe space for constructive critismn where performers with or without disabilities can try new things and "experiment", without having to worry about "how". The why is "just because", the rest comes later. Dont overly judge yourself or the educators, and performer's in the process. The point of the process is to do something new and learn from it to get better. Nothing is built perfectly in the first day, so listen, and go with the flow.

Did you know DDSP is looking for performer's with disabilities and we launch our new dance crew division disABILITY? We want to hear from you! DDSP is available for consultation and our Educators and performers provide showcases across Manitoba and Canada. For more information:
http://www.ddsp.ca/perform.html

http://www.ddsp.ca/disability-dance.html

P: 204.894.1075
E: difini.dancecrews@gmail.com
W: www.ddsp.ca

Want to get #OnTheScene with DDSP? Click here to find out more about our performing and education opportunities:

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DANCE & DISABILITY - What is the definition and How To Create A More Inclusive Dance Space for Disabled Dancers

1/20/2018

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(Picture above is of Natalie, from Def.Up- Manitoba's 1st All Deaf/ Hard of Hearing Dance Crew Founded by Stephanie Strugar)
(Picture above is Stephanie Strugar, Founder of Difinity Dance Studio & Productions)

CREATING A MORE INCLUSIVE DANCE SPACE FOR PERFORMERS WITH A DISABILITY
(For the purpose of this article, we are going to focus mainly on how you can create a more inclusive dance space for performer's with a disability)

Dancing as a person with a disability, what does this all entail? Simply put, dancing as person with a disability is no more difficult than for a person without a disability. However, as we work to create a more inclusive dance space we as choreographers, dance educators, and arts administrators must work to remove all pre-conceived limitations. If we can learn to understand the definitions of disabilities not as labels but as guiding principles to empower dancers with disabilities, we can create more opportunities to become inclusive.

In this article I hope to show you just how easy that can actually be to do. Although working to create a more in inclusive dance space for dancers with a disability may never be a perfect process, steps in the right direction that are not cumbersome can be made today.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, nor am I an expert in disability studies, however as a person with a disability who is a dance educator, choreographer, and arts director, I hope to shed some light and practical tools to create a more inclusive dance space nationally within Canada.

Lets start with looking at some definitions of Intellectual Disability, Learning Disability, Physical Disability, Serious Medical Condition as they are NOT one in the same........

What constitutes a disability? (Dictionary Definition)
noun

a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.
synonyms:handicap, disablement, incapacity, impairment, infirmity, defect, abnormality; a disadvantage or handicap, especially one imposed or recognized by the law.
- "he had to quit his job and go on disability
Another definition: 1.Disability, inability imply a lack of power or ability. A disability is some disqualifying deprivation or loss of power, physical or other: excused because of a physical disability; a temporary disability. Inability is a lack of ability, usually because of an inherent lack of talent, power, etc.: inability to talk, to do well in higher mathematics.
Definition As A Person With A Disability: A stigma attached to a label that society does not always understand and sometimes limits our ability to be fully inclusive within it.

But what about Health Conditions, are they considered a disability? Without relying on politically based definitions, I would like to show you how disability can include various definitions in the goal of helping remove stigmas associated with such labels. When focus on putting a performer or student in a particular category of definitions, we miss the "big picture". If we are truly attempting to become more inclusive, we will look at disability as a broad umbrella term that simply means "challenges a person faces when trying to access performance arts education and exhibition opportunities in their area"

Definition of Serious Health Condition
“Serious health condition” means an illness, injury, impairment or physical or mental condition that involves:

any period of incapacity or treatment connected with inpatient care (i.e., an overnight stay) in a hospital, hospice or residential medical care facility; or
period of incapacity of more than three consecutive, full calendar • days from work, school or other regular daily activities that also involves continuing treatment by a health care provider twice, or once with a continuing regimen of treatment; or
any period of incapacity related to pregnancy or for prenatal care; or
any period of incapacity or treatment for a chronic serious health condition (e.g., asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, etc.); or
a period of incapacity for permanent or long-term conditions for which treatment may not be effective (e.g., Alzheimer’s, stroke, terminal diseases, etc.); or
any period of incapacity to receive multiple treatments (including recovery from those treatments) for restorative surgery, or for a condition which would likely result in an incapacity of more than three consecutive, full calendar days absent medical treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, physical therapy, dialysis, etc.).

Definition of Learning Disabilitynoun
noun: learning disability; plural noun: learning disabilities

a condition giving rise to difficulties in acquiring knowledge and skills to the level expected of those of the same age, especially when not associated with a physical handicap.

Definition of Intellectual Disability
Intellectual disability is a disability characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior, which covers many everyday social and practical skills. This disability originates before the age of 18.

Definition of Chronic Health Condition
A chronic condition is a human health condition or disease that is persistent or otherwise long-lasting in its effects or a disease that comes with time. The term chronic is often applied when the course of the disease lasts for more than three months.

CANADA COUNCIL- Definition of MAD Artist

A person may or may not have a combination of a physical, intellectual disability to health condition that is short term or long term. Many times in conversations with performance artists or arts administrators with or without any of the above disabilities or health conditions I have found that the focus has been on disabilities as a singular aspect of a person. When we focus on disability as a broad term we unintentionally create accessibility barriers by putting people in a box by over generalizing, or stereotyping them with a label. This is why it is so important to look at people as individuals with different needs, and make getting their honest feedback your top priority.

Although most dance choreographers, artistic directors, educators, etc may not be doctors, physical therapists, or fitness educators, they can work in partnership with these professionals to ensure they are inclusive. Consent with the performer and collaboration with medical professionals is recommended, however it is not a requirement. There are many amazing resources online, and organisations that are more than willing to share information with you to improve your accessibility. Simply put gathering research and putting together a basic policies and procedures accessibility manual for your staff and volunteers to be trained in, and doing basic renovations to your performance/ rehearsal/ education space can make a huge difference. Many people who struggle with disabilities and or health conditions do not want to be treated as a burden, and may be uncomfortable to as or even bother to ask for accommodations to work with you. This is why you must take the lead and provide as much accessibility information to the public on your website and social media platforms, train your staff/ volunteers/performers/ and students about accessibility. All you need to remember is "know where you stand", evaluate your organisation and teaching methods and learn where you compare to other similar organisations and performance artists locally and internationally.

Ask yourself this question: "Am I truly doing all I can do?"
If not, ask yourself: "How can I change this?"
Look for Information Online: You dont need to be a HR Expert, Architect, Disability Studies Major, Doctor, or Fitness Expert to understand Accessibility Issues in Performance Arts. However, you can find for free or low cost e-books, articles, research books, and teaching books on accessibility online.

People with disabilities and health conditions exist on a spectrum just like a rainbow. They can be obvious and visible or be completely invisible to someone at a glance. Not all disabilities come in the same package, even if they look similar to someone. A person's ability to adapt to their life's challenges means that not all disabilities affect a person with a disabilities life the same way. Most people with a disability that desire to be more involved in dance or the performance arts scene are eager to give feedback on how accessible you are, and want to see improvement in this area for themselves and their community.

My Bio, Story, and Why I Have A Passion For Creating A More Inclusive Dance Space For All Performers
I was on employment insurance assistance in my twenties after years of struggling in school and in my career due to my physical and learning disability that was invisible at a GLANCE. Many Educators and people I had come in contact with in my youth had very little, or no real understanding of how to adapt their teaching methods so I could learn well. However, after a lot of self education and seeking out professionals online, I finally learned how to manage and improve my abilities within my challenges. These painful scars of misconceptions, and misunderstandings, and the feeling of being "left out", or "not good enough" is what ultimately led me to found Difinity Dance in 2008, and pursue post secondary disability studies education.

Why we need to understand disability as a broader term, and remove labels when it applies to dance?
By making the requirements to constitute a disability specific, you are creating a barrier for person with a disability. Applying labels is disclusive by nature, as your assuming you fully understand and can predict the capabilities of that disabled artist based on pre-conceived notions. Even when we do this with good intent, it is important to remember, that not one individual is the same, and just because you have not seen a person surpass limitations you think someone like them have, does not mean they are not capable of more. When focusing on only providing performance and education opportunities to specific types of disabilities we are not truly providing an even playing field for dancers to be seen where they could, should, and can.

This is important, because what we put on stage, or in the classroom in terms of disabled performers and educators is what the students and audience will perceive is being the only type of disability. Dancers should not have to meet a physical exam pass to perform as a disabled artist. I do agree that as a Choreographer, Fitness and Dance Educator one should have studied exercise sciences to prevent injuries to disabled dancers,and to teach them well, but this should not be a requirement. Otherwise it will take forever to create a more inclusive dance space. Being inclusive is really as easy as caring enough to ask to learn more about a person.

Dancers should be able to display their work, and work with dancers they choose (whether disabled or not) without having to give full, specific disclosure of what their disability is. When putting a call for submission and asking for a person to disclose their type of disability to attempt to be more inclusive, it should only be to learn more about the performer with the ultimate goal of accepting them for the call based on their potential as an artist or student, not based on what they "CANT DO".

The only time the specific challenges of a person's disability should ever be taken into consideration is for:

1.Physical Fitness/ Athleticism competency to finish the said production
2. To provide appropriate/ inclusive level of choreography,
3. To provide inclusive/ appropriate teaching materials/ equipment/ resources to the performer/ student
4. To understand the dancers disability to protect them throughout the production process from injury, and to ensure proper accommodations are provided when the dancer is rehearsing and performing. Such accommodations include: ASL Interpreters, lights on the stage for someone blind or deaf, wheelchair ramp and lights so no one falls off stage, good sound systems so the deaf can hear the vibrations from the music, etc.
5. For the Wardrobe/ Costume Designer to find or create inclusive costumes or dancewear for the performer with a disability
6. Budgetary Considerations for Accessibility Accommodations: Such as ASL Interpreters, etc
(The above considerations should NEVER be a reason to discriminate a student or performer with a disability. Being inclusive, and providing accessibility should only be seen as a reasonable challenge, and not an unreasonable impossibility. I always like to say, if there is a will there is a way.)

How we can be more inclusive as an Audience/ Event Host:
Often disabled person's are not provided with minimum accessibility accommodations at a show, so how can we change that? How can we ensure that they do not feel isolated, or not fully apart of the viewing experience as an audience member? There are simple, low-cost ways to make your event accessible that is WORTH you investing in. Not all, but many person's with a disability may be already limited ergonomically or economically to attend a show in the first place due to transportation costs, tickets/ cover/ education costs, etc. If a person with a disability has chosen to invest in your show with a ticket, the least you can do as an Event Host is show them how extremely glad you are that they came. As the daily life of a person with a disability can be very isolating, you as a performer an Event Host have the power to provide a healing experience for those attending. Your show could be the one positive experience they have had in a long time. Here are ways you can provide accommodations without having to invest tons of money in renovations or restructuring of your facility;

Some things to keep in mind before undertaking the following "SUGGESTIONS". Never assume you know what a person's disability is or is not,or that we are all one size fits all people who require the same accommodations. Be mindful when speaking to them that you do it respectfully, humbly, and assume they have the same desires to have a good time as other audience members. Do not attach labels to them, and do not judge their outward appearance to assume their disability. Most importantly try not to make the conversation or providing assistance awkward or humilating. You should see a need, and try to fill that need. A person with a disability, or their care providers, friends, family, guests should not have to chase you down or just "endure" a bad experience at your show just because other venues are not taking those extra steps to ensure they have a STAR experience at your venue.

Assume you are not inclusive or accessible and try to prove that you are by evaluating all elements of accessibility to your venue. Depending on the the type of disability or health conditions a person has they may pre-scope out your venue and choose not to attend despite the quality of the show due to lack of public information such as photos not listed on your website or social media pages.

Here Are Some Basic Steps In The Right Direction To Always Give A STARE Experience

1. Deaf/ Hard of Hearing: Is your Audio Inclusive? Provide audio enhancers to deaf/ blind audience members through the use of head phones or enhanced stereo equipment such as heavy bass.
2. Blind/ Visually Impaired: Providing a VIP Guest Seater and VIP seating to blind persons to ensure they can fully capture the show with all their senses. Ensure the audio quality is good quality, and include narration via Emcee or pre recordings before each act, or a playbill with brail so the guest knows whats happening next.
3. Wheelchair User/ Person with Mobility Issues:

Provide Flex seating, this can be done with having fold up chairs, stools, and other comfortable chairs that do not place a person in the isles or in an area where they cant see or hear the show well. Its up to you to work accessibility into your floor layout. The minimum you should try to have is 5 seats or more.
Removable or permanent tracking grip on your aisle ways if they head downwards towards the stage.
Add a simple plywood ramp that is removable or permanent at the front and back exits of your building, and into all areas that guests will be using. These can be cut to size and measurements for $5 to $10 per ramp at Home Depot.

4. Learning/ Intellectual Disabilities: Make sure they are comfortably seated, and let them or their caregivers know that if they need to change their seating or anything else dont hesitate to ask. Keep in mind that sensory sensitives to sound or lighting may or may not be an issue to any audience member at any time. Having things on hand that you can provide to an audience member for free such as headphones, tactile relaxation objects, sunglasses, ear plugs, etc should be readily available.

Moving Around:

5.Physical Disability/Health Conditions: Sometimes even something as simple as uncomfortable or painful seating can make it very hard for someone to enjoy your show. Having a storage closet where you hold various types of chairs such as an office chair on wheels, a chair that reclines, a rocking chair, a foot stool, stools, fold up chairs etc should ALWAYS be in your Arsenal. For some people, sitting in a particular position for to long can be painful, so keep in mind a person who struggles with chronic pain may need to stand up or move around in your venue during the show to "stretch" their ligaments/ muscles. If a person is doing this do not assume they need to be told to get back to their seating, and they should not have to justify or explain to you why they are doing this.

I have had to leave shows early or have left in pain not fullying enjoying the show do to something as simple as uncomfortable seating or just sitting in one position too long. If I felt that it would be to hard for me to sit in the type of seating a venue provided I would not attend at all. Usually I have my own comfortable fold up chair that I take with me too venues that I know I wont be comfortable in. However, those who made me feel awkward for doing this, or saw it as an un reasonable request for accessibility, I did not return too.

As we have an aging population who enjoys creative retirement, and knowing that a person can encounter a physical disability or health condition at any stage in their life, we should actively work to ensure we provide more options to these folks when attending our shows.

Basic Ways to Make Your Dance Classes More Accessible For a Person With A Disability

1. Provide comfortable seating

2. Encourage question asking

3. Provide adaptive dance movements and be open to teaching your techniques with different methods and learn how

4. Encourage your dance students and dance artists to actively create choreography that provides more opportunities for dancers with disabilities/ health conditions to do more solo performances.

5. Dont force a person with a disability/ health condition to train or perform in ways that they don't feel comfortable with. As much as they should learn your choreography, and techniques, you should listen to their ideas of the different things they can bring to the table and work it into your choreography.

6. Don't limit your ideas or their ideas for choreography. Try new ideas, experiment! See everything as an exciting adventure of "works in progress" you don't know what can't be done until you try.

7. In social dancing try to avoid pairing people based on what you assume their gender or disability to be, even when teaching traditional dance forms. Why can't a non disabled person learn how to move like a person with a disability, why must it always be the other way around?

In conclusion, these are simple ideas that will help you develop a more inclusive mindset with some fresh perspective. I do not speak for every person with a disability or health condition. I would also like to add that their are many venues, dance educators and choreographers that are doing amazing things for disability performance arts in Canada. Together we can accomplish many things by starting a conversation.

START yours TODAY :)
Written by Stephanie AE Strugar
Founder & Artistic Director of Difinity Dance Studios Productions

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