Finding joy in movement
How Every Body Moves guided Elli Flicos’ journey back into sport
Elli Flicos’ love of sport began in childhood, but after an accident in 2016 left her a wheelchair user, opportunities for physical activity felt out of reach. For years, her connection to movement was limited to physiotherapy and the occasional Pilates class. However, a serendipitous moment watching the Paralympics this summer rekindled a spark—and with the help of Every Body Moves and an inclusive local archery club, Elli has rediscovered the confidence and joy that sport brings.
“I was watching the Para Archery when a commentator mentioned an archer who started after the last Paralympics. They encouraged viewers to give it a go, and I thought, ‘Why not?’” Elli recalls. After finding a nearby club through the Every Body Moves campaign, she reached out, attended her first session, and immediately felt welcomed.
Bullseye for beginners
Archery has become a transformative experience for Elli. “The club has been fantastic in making adaptations to suit my needs, like spreading the beginners' course over weekly meetings instead of one long day,” she explains. This thoughtful adaption allowed her to participate fully without overexertion.
Elli also cherishes the community she’s found. “The other members have been so supportive and eager to share tips. There’s another seated archer at the club, and we’ve discussed techniques and adaptations together,” she says. Shooting arrows alongside other enthusiasts, Elli has reclaimed a sport she loved before her accident, finding it refreshingly familiar. “As a seated archer, I stay on the line while others move to collect arrows, but otherwise, it’s essentially the same. That’s so exciting!”
Opportunities through Every Body Moves
“Learning a new skill feels amazing,” Elli beams. “I even got two 10s in one session! The club’s support has been overwhelming - they’ve researched competitions, wheelchair scoring, and even grants to help me continue.”
Elli’s journey exemplifies the mission of Every Body Moves to make sports accessible and inclusive for all. This summer, Every Body Moves innovative partnership with Toyota and Channel 4 brought inclusive activities to the forefront during the Paris 2024 Paralympics. A QR code broadcast during coverage connected viewers to Every Body Moves activity finder, helping people like Elli discover local opportunities to move and thrive.
From adaptive archery to yoga and swimming, Every Body Moves platform highlights activities that celebrate diverse abilities. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with a sport or try something completely new, Every Body Moves is a gateway to movement, community, and joy.
