You’re Missing Out If You Aren’t Watching The Paralympics Rn

So, the Olympics have come and gone, leaving us with a void that only perfectly synchronized dives and gymnasts flipping through the air could fill. And of course it wasn’t just the sports that captured our collective attention — it was all the great TikToks. Ilona Maher’s updates on the “Olympic Villa” and Heinrik Christiansen’s chocolate chip muffin reviews? They will be missed. But, if you’re still scrolling through TikTok, trying to fill that Olympic-sized hole in your heart, I’ve got news for you: the Paralympics content is here to save the day — and dare I say, it’s even better.

The Paralympics TikTok Account

Everyone has a FYP that they’ve basically built off of their own sense of humor and needs (thank you, scarily accurate TikTok algorithm). But the Paralympics TikTok account is top-tier and should be on everyone‘s FYP. These aren’t just highlights of impressive athletic feats, though, don’t get me wrong — they’re definitely in there. But the real magic is in how these clips are both inspirational and just funny AF, which leaves you feeling totally motivated and maybe even a little bit guilty about laughing.

One video shows a swimmer with no arms racing in the pool to the tune of “Just Keep Swimming” from Finding Nemo. Just when you think it’s a cute little video, the athlete smacks into the pool wall to a Looney Tunes-esque sound effect. If you’re thinking, “Is it okay to laugh at this?”— the short answer is yes, yes it is.

The Paralympics account has nailed the fine line between celebrating these incredible athletes and acknowledging the real, sometimes funny, challenges they face. It’s so unserious that it’s hilarious. One of the videos features a long jump athlete with only one leg jumping to “Right Foot Creep”? I know, I know. These videos aren’t just entertaining — they’re humanizing in a way that the usual highlight reels can’t quite capture.

And unlike almost all social media these days, the account isn’t run by some Gen Z mastermind with a knack for dark humor. It’s managed by a team of four 20- to 30-somethings, three of whom have disabilities themselves, including two former Paralympians. They’re using their platform to provide the kind of representation they never had growing up, and they’re doing it in a way that’s both groundbreaking and ridiculously entertaining. So yes, you can laugh without worrying about feeling like an awful person — these athletes are laughing right along with you.

Paralympics Schedule And How To Watch

Now that I’ve convinced you to add the Paralympics TikTok account to your daily scroll, you’re probably wondering when and where you can catch all the live action. Lucky for you, the schedule is packed with events that are guaranteed to have you on the edge of your seat.

The Paralympics are happening from August 28 to September 8, with events spread across a variety of sports, including swimming, track and field, cycling, and wheelchair basketball. Each sport showcases athletes who redefine what it means to be a competitor, pushing the boundaries of what the human body — and spirit — can achieve.

So, how can you watch? NBC is your go-to source for all things Paralympics. You can tune in to the live broadcasts or catch up on your favorite events on their streaming service, Peacock. Plus, NBC Sports has you covered with daily highlights and behind-the-scenes stories that will make you feel even more connected to the athletes. I’d suggest planning ahead so that you don’t miss any of the action.

If you’re still clinging to that Olympic nostalgia, it’s time to let go and embrace the Paralympics. Not only do these athletes compete at the highest levels of sport, but they do it while navigating challenges that would leave most of us on the sidelines. Oh and if you were sad about having to say goodbye to your favorite Olympian couple from the spotlight, did I mention that Hunter Woodhall will be competing?