IFAPA is an international scientific organization of higher education scholars, practitioners and students dedicated to promoting APA. The fundamental purposes of IFAPA are :

  • to encourage international cooperation in the field of physical activity to the benefit of individuals of all abilities,
  • to promote, stimulate and support research in the field of adapted physical activity throughout the world,
  • and to make scientific knowledge of and practical experiences in adapted physical activity available to all interested persons, organizations and institutions.

IFAPA coordinates national, regional, and international functions (both governmental and nongovernmental) that pertain to sport, dance, aquatics, exercise, fitness, and wellness for individuals of all ages with disabilities or special needs.
IFAPA is linked with several other international governing bodies, including the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), Special Olympics International and the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE). English is the language used for IFAPA correspondence, conferences.