Inclusive and accessible fitness

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Inclusive & Accessible Fitness

Overview: Is your health and fitness center both

inclusive and accessible? The goal is to be both—the

terms are not mutually exclusive.

Accessibility. Regulations regarding accessibility are in

place. The U.S. Department of Justice adopted the revised

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations, which

include the ADA 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.

The Standards include sections covering recreation

facilities, play areas, and government facilities. The

significance of this adoption ensures that fitness facilities

are legally obligated to adhere to accessible design

standards. On March 15, 2012, all new construction,

renovations, and alterations must meet 2010 Standards.

Individuals are More Likely to Exercise When Programs and Services Meet the Needs of Everyone

Inclusive Fitness. There are no regulations regarding

inclusive fitness. How can your facility be both accessible

and inclusive creating a welcoming environment for

everyone? How can facility managers position their

business to meet the March 2012 mandate? In this

overview we will examine the areas required to create a

more inclusive and accessible facility; the challenges;

important tips for success; educational opportunities; and,

the benefits of developing an inclusive environment.

June 2011Cary Wing, EdD – [email protected]

Medical Fitness Consultant and Expert for Fitmarc

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The Opportunity

Opportunity: It is estimated that 50 million people in this

country have some type of disability and they need health

and fitness services. This significant portion of the

population faces some of the greatest health risks

associated with sedentary lifestyles. This population

includes the young, adults, and seniors with physical,

cognitive and/or sensory challenges—a wide range of

individuals who must incorporate physical activity into their

daily lives. Several years ago The Inclusive Fitness

Coalition (IFC) developed out of the need to address these

health issues. The organization has created a unified effort

to increase access to, and participation in, physical activity

and exercise.

Over 50 Million People Have Some Type of Disability

Inclusive fitness is an untapped market. Benchmarks do

exist, however. There are established fitness facility

programs that provide a seamless environment for all

members regardless of ability or physical challenges. FIT,

in Los Altos, CA, leads the way and is host to FITBuddies.

This successful group-training program for individuals with

intellectual disabilities improves the health and wellness of

this population by providing professional instruction in a

fun and safe environment. The facility is both inclusive

and accessible.



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The Challenges

The Challenges: A thorough review of your facility may reveal

areas that need upgrading to meet the 2012 mandate. The

Health and Fitness Clubs Workgroup (IFC) has compiled

educational materials that can be used to identify barriers and

increase inclusion at fitness centers. Here are some

questions to ask when creating a more accessible facility:

• Do you have countertops at various heights?

• Are the doors in the facility too heavy?

• Is your fitness equipment accessible?

• Is there a shower chair or roll-in shower available

for individuals with wheelchairs?

• Are 5% of available lockers accessible to

individuals with disabilities?

Being Inclusive and Accessible, Creating a Welcoming Facility, Goes Beyond Providing a Curb Cut

As previously stated, however, a facility with accessible

equipment and amenities may not be inclusive. Many

individuals with disabilities indicate they feel excluded

primarily due to physical and attitudinal barriers; stigma

and stereotypes; and, a chronic lack of opportunity. A

separate physical activity class for facility members

who use wheelchairs does not promote an inclusive

environment. How welcoming is your facility?



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Important Tips

The Tools: The mission of the Health and Fitness Club

Workgroup is to motivate managers and staff of fitness

facilities to develop an environment that is inclusive,

providing accessibility to all. This may involve, but is

not limited to, changes to equipment, facilities,

programs, practices, staff training, and marketing.

Available tools and resources include:

• Making Your Health & Fitness Center a Welcoming

Facility (IFC Factsheet)

• ACSM/NCPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer

program

• Before & After Fitness Center Makeover (NCPAD)

A Fitness Facility Should Seek to Develop an Inclusive and Accessible Environment

Enlisting the aid of a company knowledgeable in the

mission and goals of inclusive and accessible fitness

can save valuable time. A company that understands

the impact of the 2010 ADA Guidelines for Accessible

Design--and the importance of inclusive fitness--can

provide resources, marketing materials, consulting

support and solutions for successful adherence.



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Conclusion

Recap: Fifty million people in this country have some type

of disability and they need health and fitness services. This

is a unique opportunity for the industry. As professionals and

leaders you can provide an accessible and inclusive fitness

facility, expand program offerings, and impact the daily lives

of millions of people. FITBuddies is an example of a fitness

facility identifying an opportunity; being confident in straying

from the norm; and, taking the necessary steps to implement

a program. Their facility is inclusive and accessible. Can

your facility do the same? Visit FITBuddies to learn more:

http://buddiesinaction.wordpress.com/about/

An Inclusive and Accessible Fitness Facility Is an Opportunity to Expand Your Facility and Your Business

Create awareness and reach out to this untapped market.

The Medical Fitness Circle of Health includes everyone.



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About Us

About Us: Fitmarc serves hundred of fitness facilities

and thousands of fitness professionals through the

delivery of programs, solutions, consulting services

and education. Our team of experts can deliver real

world answers to your facility’s biggest challenges.

Looking to improve operating results at your fitness facility? We can help.

To Learn More:

Visit our website at www.fitmarc.com

Follow Fitmarc on Twitter

Like Fitmarc on Facebook

Call Fitmarc at 800-814-1207

I am here to be your resource and help you achieve greater

success. As the Director of Business Development for

Medical Fitness for Fitmarc, I have years of experience

working in the medical fitness industry, developing the

medical fitness model, and uniting fitness and healthcare.

Let’s connect so that I can be a resource and partner for

you and your organization.

Follow me on Twitter @caryhwing

or www.carywing.com



http://www.fitmarc.com/

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Inclusive and accessible fitness