What is Frame Running?

Frame Running Wollongong (not for profit) is a unique community sporting service operating in the Illawarra. Frame Running Wollongong aims to enrich the lives of children with a disability or impaired balance by participating in the sport Frame Running. We are the only organisation in Illawarra providing this whilst providing a sporting outlet where the children feel safe, secure, supported, and equal on custom-designed 3-wheel bikes.

The program consists of one hour after school per week, where the kids experience a sporting activity – Frame Running with targeted goals, assessment, outcomes, and fun and inclusivity. Our Program is an activity where the whole family is encouraged to come along, and we also offer a sibling’s program.

We operate every Monday 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM at the Sports Hub at the University of Wollongong. We do not operate during the school holidays and on public holidays.

VISION STATEMENT:

Our vision at Frame Running Wollongong (FRW) is to create a community where children with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in sport and physical activities.

MISSION STATEMENT:

Mission Statement: Frame Running Wollongong (FRW) is dedicated to providing a unique and inclusive sporting service for children with mobility challenges in the Illawarra. Our not-for-profit community-based charity aims to enrich the lives of these children by offering facilitated exercise programs through the sport of Frame Running, promoting fitness, strength and endurance. We provide a safe, supportive and equal environment where children feel empowered to experience the freedom of running on custom-designed 3-wheel bike-frames. We focus on early intervention and disability participation in sport, led by a team of passionate parents of children with disabilities, a physiotherapist and dedicated volunteers. Our evidence-based program offers a one-hour weekly session, free of charge, with targeted goals, assessments and outcomes, ensuring fun and inclusivity. We offer a sibling support program and parent support get-togethers, encouraging the whole family to participate with the goals to promote physical and mental well-being, pathways for self-esteem, confidence and creating lasting memories for children and families in our community……. ‘Free to Run’

OUR STRATEGIC FOCUS:

We believe that every child should be able to walk or run, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive community that supports this belief. Through our focus on Frame Running, we aim to empower children with mobility challenges to develop their physical abilities, build their confidence, and create lifelong memories. We are dedicated to expanding our reach and impact in the Illawarra, increasing the number of children with disabilities who can participate in our programs. By building strong partnerships with local schools, disability organisations, local businesses, and government agencies, we can maximise our impact and ensure that our programs are accessible to as many children as possible. We recognise the critical role that volunteers play in our organisation, and we are committed to providing them with the training and support they need to deliver our programs effectively and sustainably. Our volunteers are the backbone of our organisation, and we are committed to investing in them to ensure that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to make a real difference in the lives of the children we serve. Fundraising is a critical component of our business strategy, and we are committed to organising fundraising events and initiatives to generate income to support our activities. We also seek grants from corporations to help fund our programs and equipment, ensuring that we can continue to provide free Frame Running sessions to children with disabilities in our community. Our ultimate vision is to create a world where every child has the opportunity to walk or run, regardless of their abilities. By focusing on Frame Running and building partnerships, engaging volunteers, and fundraising, we are committed to making this vision a reality.

WHO IS FRAME RUNNING WOLLONGONG?

Three passionate women, Sian Napper, Renee Jurgielan and physiotherapist Suzy Lock, have led the charge to establish a frame running group for children with mobility challenges in the Illawarra.

Having a drive for early intervention and specialised sporting opportunities, we created Frame Running Wollongong (FRW) to make a difference for children with a disability.

It’s about inclusive sporting fun, playing games, making new friends and feeling the freedom of movement but most of all putting a smile on kids faces.

We have secured a venue partner to operate the program; the Sports Hub at the University of Wollongong, which will enable the program to run one afternoon a week.

The Frame Runners are supplied by Dejay Medical Pty Ltd from Rouse Hill, NSW.

UNDERSTANDING A FRAME RUNNER

A Frame Running Frame is:

A three wheeled frame, similar to a trike, but with no pedals which supports you as you walk or run.
Is used by people of all ages for recreation and sport at a variety of levels.
A very effective way of improving overall fitness, strength and well-being.
Can be used by children 2-3 years through to adulthood.
Is suitable for children with a disability or impaired mobility or balance.
Rolls so freely that even people who have been restricted to power wheelchairs have now found a way of propelling themselves by their own efforts.
Has a low center of gravity and frame design offers good stability and poise whilst running or walking.
The saddle unit counter-acts lateral sway and also can be used as a seat when resting.

Despite considerable physical challenges, most users are able to use the Frame Runner to propel themselves considerably faster than they could with assistance.