This study descriptively measured the universal accessibility of “accessible” fitness and recreational facilities for Ontarians living with mobility disabilities.
This study descriptively measured the universal accessibility of “accessible” fitness and recreational facilities for Ontarians living with mobility disabilities. The physical and social environments of 44 fitness and recreational facilities that identified as “accessible” were assessed using a modified version of the AIMFREE. None of the 44 facilities were completely accessible. Mean accessibility ratings ranged between 31 and 63 out of a possible 100. Overall, recreational facilities had higher accessibility scores than fitness centers, with significant differences found on professional support and training, entrance areas, and parking lot. A modest correlation was found between the availability of fitness programming and the overall accessibility of fitness-center specific facility areas. Overall, the physical and social environments of the 44 fitness and recreational facilities assessed were limited in their accessibility for persons with mobility disabilities. Future efforts should be directed at establishing and meeting universal accessibility guidelines for Canadian physical activity facilities.
Attached document published January 2011
Adaptive Recreation: Hiking and Biking for Mobility Device Users
posted Feb 24, 2024
This U.S. Fish and Wildlife presentation by Quinn Brett focuses on trail information and trail usability.
Age and Dementia Friendly Design Considerations for Physical Infrastructure
posted Oct 3, 2023
Inclusive design can address functional needs arising from dementia.
The Trail Access Project Removes Barriers to the Outdoors
posted Feb 11, 2022
Their goal is to facilitate the removal of barriers to recreational trail usage through providing information, increasing accessible features, and supporting park managers in making changes.
posted Nov 9, 2021
Everything you need to know about planning, building, and maintaining accessible trails.
306 views • posted 02/05/2020
