The demographic and disability characteristics of individuals who regularly attend an urban adaptive fitness center: An observational study

PM R, 2022 · DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12720 · Published: December 1, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study looks at people with disabilities who regularly go to a specialized fitness center in a city. It aims to understand who uses these resources. The study found that these individuals, despite having higher levels of disability than the general population, were able to participate in physical activity regularly. The findings suggest that adaptive fitness centers can provide a feasible and realistic way for people with disabilities to exercise, regardless of mobility impairments.

Study Duration

3 months

Participants

63 participants attending an urban Adaptive Sports and Fitness Center

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
Participants had a higher level of disability than 80% to 90% of the general population, yet regular participation was realistic and feasible.
2
The average distance traveled to the fitness center was 8.0 miles, suggesting that distance was not a major barrier for this group.
3
There were significant between-group differences for the domain of mobility, but individuals with mobility impairments were still attending the fitness center.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the demographics and characterized the degree of disability in those regularly attending an urban adaptive fitness center. The study found significant between-group differences for the domain of mobility, but individuals with mobility impairments were still attending the fitness center. The study shows that although participants at this urban adaptive fitness center had a higher level of disability than 80% to 90% of the general population, active participation in the fitness center was realistic and feasible.

Practical Implications

Accessible Fitness Opportunities

Highlight the importance of accessible adaptive fitness opportunities in communities to address the lower rates of exercise among people with disabilities.

Understanding Barriers

Emphasize the need for further research to understand the barriers preventing individuals with disabilities from engaging in adaptive fitness facilities.

Psychosocial Benefits

Promote the potential of regular physical activity to provide psychological and social benefits, such as improved self-esteem and community reintegration, for individuals with disabilities.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size due to the uniqueness of the facility.
2
Lack of a comparison group of individuals who did not participate in the fitness center.
3
Self-reported heights and weights for BMI calculation.

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