Adaptive and Inclusive Fitness: How The Epic Can Help

By January 23, 2019 Epic Extras

With over 120,000 feet of recreation space, which includes over $1 million dollars of cardio and strength equipment, and plenty of fitness, sports, arts and music programming, The Epic recreation center is well equipped for adaptive and inclusive programs, events and activities.  Inclusive recreation, also known as adaptive or accessible recreation, is a concept whereby people with disabilities are given the opportunity to participate in recreational activities. Through the use of activity modifications, members are able to participate in most of the activities available for able bodied/minded members.

We define disability as any condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the individual to do certain activities and interact with the world around them.  The following is a list of, but is not limited to, disabilities that warrant adaptive and inclusive accommodations:

  • ADD/ADHD
  • Amputation
  • Asperger’s
  • Autism
  • Cardiac Rehabilitation
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Down Syndrome
  • Injury Rehabilitation
  • Muscular Dystrophy
  • Obesity
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Spinal Bifida
  • Stroke Victims

Everyone, including people with disabilities, needs physical activity for good health.  Regular exercise can help control weight, improve mental health and lower risk for death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer.  For the estimated 1 in 5 who have a disability in the United States, it is estimated that nearly half the adults with disabilities do not participate in any aerobic activity.

With the Epic’s multi purpose space, tracks and adaptive cardiovascular equipment, we can provide numerous ways to increase aerobic capacity.  Examples of aerobic activities for disabled members include walking, water aerobics, swimming, hand-crank bicycling, and various wheelchair athletics.  Also, through the adaptive use of free weights and machines, there are many resistance-based exercises to enhance muscular fitness.

The Epic Staff has qualified Recreation Aides with plenty of experience when it comes to special needs and disabilities.  Christine Klebba and Paola Elizalde have over 30 years of combined experience in this field and are will be available to help those with special accommodations.  Members/Guests can fill out an accommodation form/waiver at the front desk when specific assistance is needed.  If you are interested in adaptive fitness, please send all questions and concerns to tmenezes@gptx.org.

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Thomas Menezes

Author Thomas Menezes

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