MOVEUP – Mild Health Conditions Optimisation through Vital Exercise and Unwind Programme
Funded by: Erasmus+ Sport 2024 – Cooperation Partnerships
Duration: 30 months
Coordinator: Asociatia Sportiva Corporate Games (ASCG), Romania
Partners:
- Romanian Football Federation (FRF), Romania
- APS ASD Margherita Sport e Vita (MSV), Italy
- Football Federation of Kosovo (FFK), Kosovo
- International Diabetes Federation Europe (IDFE), Belgium
Background and Objectives
Chronic health conditions (CHC) such as diabetes and hypertension affect millions of Europeans, leading to reduced quality of life and increased healthcare costs. Physical inactivity exacerbates these conditions, yet tailored sports programmes for this demographic remain scarce. The MOVEUP project addresses this gap by promoting adapted team sports—walking football, walking basketball and catchball—designed for individuals living with CHC.
Key Objectives:
- Enhance Accessibility: develop inclusive sports programmes tailored to the needs of adults living with CHC.
- Improve Well-being: measure and improve participants’ physical fitness and mental health.
- Foster Social Inclusion: combat isolation by building supportive communities through team sports.
- Train Coaches: equip 40–60 trainers with skills to work safely with CHC participants.
- Promote Sustainability: create a replicable model for European-wide adoption.
Innovative Approach
MOVEUP combines medical oversight, community engagement and digital tools:
- Personalised Programmes: adapted sports accommodate physical limitations while ensuring safety.
- Healthcare Collaboration: physicians and physiotherapists monitor participants’ progress.
- Digital Platform: a custom app tracks health metrics and fosters peer support.
- European Week of Sport (EWoS): events in 2025 and 2026 will showcase the programme’s impact.
Expected Impact
- Participants (800–1,000): improved cardiovascular health, weight management and social connections.
- Coaches: specialised training to support CHC individuals, enhancing their professional skills.
- Organisations: expanded networks with healthcare providers and sport federations (e.g., UEFA, Italian Basketball Federation).
- Policy: advocacy for inclusive sports policies aligned with EU health strategies like HealthyLifestyle4All.
Outputs
- Training Manuals: for walking football, basketball and catchball.
- Research Reports: on the benefits of adapted sports for CHC management.
- Pilot Affiliation Network: a sustainable platform for future collaborations.
- Environmental Initiatives: carbon footprint reduction through tree-planting campaigns.
Conclusion
MOVEUP redefines active living for adults with CHC, blending exercise, medical care and community to foster resilience and long-term health. By scaling across Europe, the project aims to leave a legacy of inclusivity and innovation in sports.