Im an Exercise PhysiologistHeres Why You Shouldnt Worry About Cortisol Spikes When You Do HIIT Workouts.
Elliptical vs Treadmill: Which Cardio Machine Is Right For You?
Does Rowing Count as Strength Training?
This is more than aquarter(27 percent) of the population.
That same year, Pelotonbrought onan adaptive training consultant and released an adaptive training collection.
BothNikeand Tonal nowofferclasses for adaptive athletes.
…
There are also more machines that can be used by people with disabilities than ever before.
For instance, a newdeadlift accessoryallows individuals with one arm to deadlift.
There arebikesthat allow people who use wheelchairs to pedal.
And we now haverowersmade with visual impairments in mind.
No doubt, these examples remain the exception to the rule.
And this oversight is doing a major disservice to those with disabilities.
Indeed,researchhas found that people living with physical disabilities are three times more likely to experience depression.
Exercise presents an opportunity to engage in group activities and the surrounding environment.
So, what can fitness studios do to be more accessible?
…
Heres What Experts Say
Glute Bridge vs Hip Thrust: Which Is The Better Booty Booster?
Im a Master TrainerHeres Why You Shouldnt Skip Your Post-Run Stretches.
Ditto goes for the art you hang in your space.
Better yet, hire adaptive athletes to model in your campaigns!
These images, however, should not mislead potential members.
Dont hang photographs of athletes in wheelchairs, for example, if your space is not wheelchair-accessible.
Put your money where your marketing is
Representation is just the start.
This includes investing in adaptive equipment.
Ask: Who can get into the facility?
Is there a ramp or are there only stairs?
Similarly, who can move through the facility with ease?
Accessible gyms know this and work to minimize it.
And dont forget your restrooms, says Raymond.
The restroom facilities including lockers and shower areas need to be accessible, too, he says.
Fixed benches in these small spaces are the worst, he says.
To be clear, there are some accommodations thatarentalways going to be immediately obvious.
Disability consultants and coordinators are experts at eying a space and outlining what needs to be updated.
The same holds true for gym staff members.
Fitness studios can also provide disability inclusion training for their staff.
Remember: True accessibility includes the language we use.
More likely than not, its probably unintentional.
But its phrases like these that can end up leaving people out.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
