We all know that there are those who are just beginning their journey to experience the positive physical, emotional, and mental benefits of recreational activities. Then there are those who are experienced, goal-oriented, and well anchored in their particular journey. But each of these types of people also have a multitude of different mental and physical abilities that can affect their success.
In fact, according to the CDC, 26% of adults in the United States have some type of disability. Are you doing everything possible to minimize the impact on the fitness programs of people with different abilities in your facility?
Update to increase inclusivity
The decision to upgrade your facility to ADA-compliant is a good place to start for inclusivity. If you haven’t already, finding a good ADA consultancy to help you with this process is a good first step. But why stop here? Since the ADA was established decades ago, many advances have been made in the designs and types of equipment that provide facilities with improved accessibility and ease of use by greater numbers of customers.
ADDITIONAL CREDIT: Three leisure managers on campus tell how you can create an integrative culture through training, special programs, sports and equipment.
While it is unlikely that your facility will be able to accommodate every person and ability, your goal should be to continually strive to provide a facility that removes barriers to personal fitness programs for as many people as possible. From providing simple signage to ADA elevators to fitness equipment for gyms, there is a plethora of new and innovative products that can help your facility become ADA compliant and inclusive for people with disabilities.
The key to attracting and retaining your customers lies in your ability to identify and meet their needs before they even know they might have a need. Providing solutions to problems that most people take for granted not only makes you a leader in your industry, but also provides you with a very loyal group of customers. They will appreciate that you go the extra mile with inclusivity to give them the same opportunities that are so easily offered to many other people.
Bruce Giffin is the vice president of sales and marketing for Aqua Creek Products. He has over 15 years of experience designing and manufacturing ADA compliant products. Reach him at [email protected].
Image courtesy of Shutterstock
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