Adaptive Exercise Equipment Guide

People with physical limitations require specially designed exercise equipment. People living with an amputation, spinal cord injury, stroke, traumatic brain injury and blindness are just a few examples of those who might use adaptive exercise equipment. According to Dr. James Rimmer of the University of Illinois, most health clubs meet poor standards of accessibility for the disabled. Home exercise may be the only fitness option for many people with disabilities, unless an adaptive fitness facility is geographically accessible. Different types of equipment are available for purchase. Some devices can be used alone, but many require the assistance of a partner.

Gait Training

People with physical limitations often experience difficulty walking, so equipment has been created to help them participate in gait-training activities. Gait training is usually performed on modified bicycles, treadmills or ellipticals. Gait training may be passive, assistive or active. Gait training is passive if the exerciser isn't moving his legs himself; assistive if he is receiving help from the machine; and active if he is doing the work himself. Passive or assistive gait-training devices include the MotoMed and Functional Electrical Stimulation bicycles, as well as weight-assisted treadmills like the RoboMedica. Weight-assisted treadmills use a harness to reduce the load placed on the exerciser and provide a safety net to those who are relearning to walk. Most gait trainers are roll-in for wheelchair users.

Standing

People who can't stand independently can use a standing frame. A standing frame supports your hips and knees, keeping your knees from buckling and your hips from sinking backward. Pumping a lever moves the user from a seated position to a standing position. Standing loads your spine and lower extremities, helping to prevent osteoporosis, improve circulation to the extremities and prevent contractures. Standing frames are easy to transfer into from a wheelchair and are available with extra features like gliding handles and desks.

Strength Training

Cables, free weights, weight machines and bands can all be used to assist and resist movements. Conventional gym systems may be adapted using attachments and the assistance of a partner. Systems with a removable bench can be rolled into, allowing you to exercise in a wheelchair. Specialized gloves may be necessary to help you grip dumbbells, bars and handles. Systems designed for accessibility may also be purchased.

Cardiovascular Activity

Cardiovascular fitness is important to prevent health complications. Active gait-training devices can provide a cardiovascular workout for those who are able. Arm biking, or upper-body cycle ergometry, is suitable for people of all ability levels. Arm bikes can be placed on a tabletop for easy access, purchased with a roll-in option or used in the standing position. Aquatic exercise is another option. Flotation devices can help create safe, ability-appropriate aquatic workouts.

Other

Adaptive exercise equipment doesn't have to be limited to machines. A creative mind can find safe ways to adapt common objects and gym equipment. Yoga blocks and gait straps can be used to keep joints aligned, while pillows and cushions help prevent joints from moving through an unsafe range of motion. Safety should be your first priority, so consult your doctor before starting an adaptive fitness program, and exercise under the supervision of an adaptive fitness professional.