Environmental and personal factors that influence gym members with disabilities

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Individuals with disabilities (IWD) are at increased risk for chronic health conditions. Much of this risk can be countered through exercise, yet most IWD do not achieve enough exercise to meet recommended guidelines. IWD exercise in gyms; however, barriers to gym-based exercise exist. Utilizing The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF), this study explored environmental and personal factors that serve as barriers and facilitators to gym-based exercise among IWD from the perspective of those surpassing, meeting, and partially meeting the USDHHS physical activity guidelines. Ten participants (N = 10) with a range of disabilities were interviewed. Thirteen base questions focused on their experiences with their gym’s class offerings, environment, communities, and staff members. A thematic analysis was employed. Three themes emerged: environmental and personal factors intersect to mold IWD gym interactions, factors influencing gym use by IWD extended beyond gym design, and personal trainers need special training but should not apply special treatment when working with IWD. Further research is needed by health-behavior researchers to better understand personal factors that differ between IWD and where to intervene within gym environments.