Sport for all
Since 2001 the Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) has provided grants to gyms across the country to help them encourage disabled people to sign up.
Research carried out in 1998 revealed that the majority of fitness suites around the country were not accessible for the disabled because of a shortage of suitable equipment and a lack of disability awareness among staff.
A spokesman for the IFI said: “For too long now fitness has been presented to disabled people as exclusive. The IFI, under the auspices of the English Federation of Disability Sport, is working to provide a range of solutions to these barriers.”
The main scheme has targeted 150 gyms across England to ensure that disabled people will have an IFI facility within reasonable travelling distance.
Case study
Name: Anna Thomson
Located: Crewe
Age: 24
Medical history: Spina bifida and hydrocephalus
“I never did much sport at school because I have difficulty walking and sometimes use a stick. That meant I was excluded from most things, which didn't do my confidence any good at all. I tended to be sent out for a walk with a teacher while everyone else was playing rounders or hockey.
I have belonged to gyms in the past but I always found the staff unfriendly and felt that I was being watched.
I joined the Total Fitness gym in Crewe about a month ago and have found staff to be very friendly and helpful.
There is obviously certain gym equipment I can't use, such as the rowing machines, which would put too much strain on my back, but there is a good range I can use.
I also enjoy swimming, which is great exercise because the water supports my body, and I find it very relaxing.
Although I've only been with the fitness centre for a few weeks, already I feel much healthier. I have more energy and although I still have aches and pains, they have eased off.
I feel more confident too as my self esteem has improved. I'd certainly recommend joining a fitness club to everyone, although you may have to take a look around before you find one to suit you.”