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Disabled-Friendly Gyms: What Needs to Change
Gyms are places for everyone from all walks of life, but are they disabled-friendly? Not Usually
Many gyms may have some accessibility to allow disabled gym-goers to work out, but most are lacking and staff are not equipped to provide the same level of service as they give able-bodied people.
It’s important to realise having a disability doesn’t mean someone can’t work out. Many can, but they might need help or a more accessible layout to make this possible.
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The accessibility issues associated with a typical gym layout
Of course, all gyms differ, but there’s typically a generic layout. Many have stairs with a lift option for those who would struggle to use the stairs, which is a great accessible function. But, a lift alone isn’t enough and, in many gyms, this is where their accessibility ends.
One of the first stumbling blocks those with mobility issues face in the gym is the proximity of equipment to one another. Exercise equipment is often close together, which can cause problems if someone needs additional space for a wheelchair or other mobility aids. It can also cause a problem for people who have mental health issues which means they prefer space and struggle with having other people too close to them.
Gyms could easily get around this by spacing a small area of the gym out more. A notice could also be left on equipment to explain the reason for their positioning to prevent anything from being moved.
Another problem disabled people face while working out is heavy doors. However, a simple button to press to automatically open the door could solve this.
Often parking could also be improved, particularly with gyms in big cities and built-up areas where few parking spaces are available.
Examples of adaptive equipment gyms could use
Part of going to the gym is about making a fitness plan and sticking to it. Yet, if someone with limited eyesight wants to keep track of their progress, most screens can either be difficult or impossible to see. Larger displays, braille and synthetic speech will help them keep track.
For people who can work out alone, but need more extra physical support, equipment with easy-to-reach handles and back support can make all the difference. One example is exercise bikes which have a high back, for those who would cause themselves more pain and discomfort by leaning forward or struggle to maintain their balance.
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Staff and training
It’s also important for staff to create a welcoming environment where all visitors feel accepted and supported. This can be achieved by providing disability awareness training for staff, displaying accessible signage throughout the facility, and offering additional support services, such as fitness classes, or training sessions with personal trainers who have experience in providing inclusive fitness plans.
Trainers and other staff should be understanding of different needs and be able to provide support when needed. This includes providing additional guidance or assistance with equipment as well as being patient while working with clients at different levels of mobility.
It’s more difficult to get other gym members to be understanding and accommodating to people with a range of disabilities. However, if staff adopt an inclusive approach, and provide the necessary adaptations, this shows the gym to be open-minded and welcoming. It would then become the norm to accept anyone who is different from them, with prejudice becoming less common.
Gyms should be for everyone who needs them. Often, disabled people will use them to stay healthy and improve painful symptoms and prevent or delay further deterioration.
The world mourns the loss of Dame Maggie Smith. The beloved actress, known for her iconic roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has passed away at the age of 89. Her family announced that she died peacefully in hospital early on the morning of September 27, 2024. She was surrounded by friends and family.
Dame Maggie was a titan of British theatre and film. Her illustrious career spanned over seven decades. During this time, she garnered two Academy Awards for remarkable performances in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1970) and California Suite (1979). Her talent earned her four additional Oscar nominations and eight BAFTA awards, solidifying her status as one of the greatest actresses.
In a heartfelt statement, her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, expressed their profound sadness. They stated, “It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She leaves behind two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
The family also expressed gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the staff at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital during her final days. They emphasized the importance of respecting their privacy during this difficult time.
Dame Maggie’s career began in the theatre, where she first gained acclaim. She earned her first BAFTA nomination in the 1958 film Nowhere to Go. Her remarkable talent caught the eye of legendary director Laurence Olivier. He cast her as Desdemona opposite his Othello at the National Theatre in 1963. This collaboration later led to an Oscar nomination when the production was adapted into film.
The outpouring of tributes from friends and admirers has already begun. Gyles Brandreth described her as “one of the greats” and reflected on her extraordinary life and the golden era she represented.
As we bid farewell to Dame Maggie Smith, we celebrate her incredible contributions to the arts. She brought joy to audiences around the world. Thank you, Dame Maggie, for your unforgettable performances and the legacy you leave behind. Your spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
Sophie Shuttleworth, a 32-year-old woman from Newport, has experienced a remarkable transformation thanks to a robotic exoskeleton for paralysis. After contracting viral meningitis in July 2022, she was left paralyzed from the chest down and spent two years relying on a wheelchair.
In January, Sophie began using the exoskeleton during therapy sessions at the Morello Clinic, a local rehabilitation center. The device enables her to stand and move her legs in a natural walking pattern, allowing her to experience the sensation of being upright for the first time in two years. This moment was deeply emotional for Sophie, who described the joy of regaining mobility after such a long period of inactivity.
Beyond the emotional impact, the exoskeleton has provided Sophie with significant physical benefits. It has improved her circulation and bone density—crucial factors considering her diagnosis of osteopenia due to prolonged immobility. Sophie emphasized the mental health benefits as well, comparing the endorphins she now feels when walking to the exhilaration she experienced while swimming, a sport she loved before her illness.
Sophie, along with eight others who use the exoskeleton, is actively fundraising to support its continued availability at the clinic, aiming to raise £50,000 for a year of access to this life-changing technology. Each user benefits uniquely from the device, demonstrating its versatility in addressing various mobility challenges.
Before her illness, Sophie was fiercely independent and even swam 22 miles in a local pool to raise money for charity. While she continues to rely on family support for certain tasks, she is optimistic about the future. The combination of the exoskeleton and her new ground-floor apartment, designed to meet her needs, brings her closer to regaining her independence.
As she navigates this new chapter, Sophie remains hopeful and determined, believing that with continued use of the exoskeleton, she can achieve greater autonomy in her daily life. Her story not only highlights the potential of robotic technology in rehabilitation but also serves as an inspiration to many facing similar challenges.
His Sickled Journey is a short film being shown on Generation Black TV. This compelling narrative follows Femi, a serial over-thinker, as he learns the ins and outs of sickle cell anemia to support his new girlfriend, Chanice. The film highlights the importance of understanding and empathy in relationships, especially when dealing with chronic illnesses.
The Storyline of His Sickled Journey
In His Sickled Journey, Femi is happily coasting in honeymoon avenue with his new girlfriend, Chanice. However, his anxiety begins to rise after she reveals that she has the genetic condition sickle cell anemia. Determined to be there for her, Femi decides to learn everything he can about the condition. As he undergoes this journey, he grows closer to Chanice, but his overthinking ways threaten to sabotage their budding romance.
Inspiration Behind His Sickled Journey
The concept for His Sickled Journey was inspired by Her Sickled Journey, a personal blog about sickle cell awareness founded by Tito Oye. Tito is a 23-year-old London-based tenancy manager and lover of life. She has always had a passion for helping others and writes to help people realize that sickle cell doesn’t need to define their entire identity. Her blog serves as a beacon of hope and education for those affected by the condition.
Meet the Cast: David Ajayi
His Sickled Journey stars David Ajayi, a British-born actor with Nigerian heritage. Raised in South London, David studied Accounting & Finance at Coventry University before training at Identity School of Acting. In addition to acting, David is a writer, presenter, producer, and director, known for the comedy web series Minister in Training and the short film series Moments. He also has a music persona known as Gbenga De Rapper.
Watch His Sickled Journey on Generation Black TV
His Sickled Journey is more than just a film; it’s an educational experience that brings awareness to sickle cell anemia. Generation Black TV is committed to showcasing diverse stories that resonate with a wide audience. By watching this film, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those living with sickle cell anemia and the importance of support and empathy in relationships.
The Impact of His Sickled Journey
His Sickled Journey not only entertains but also educates its audience about sickle cell anemia. It’s a powerful story of love, understanding, and overcoming personal fears. The film’s portrayal of Femi’s journey to support Chanice highlights the importance of learning about and understanding chronic conditions to build stronger, more empathetic relationships.
Don’t Miss His Sickled Journey on Generation Black TV
Tune in to Generation Black TV to watch His Sickled Journey. This short film promises to deliver a heartfelt story that will leave a lasting impact. With its strong performances and meaningful storyline, it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in stories about love, empathy, and personal growth.
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