Understanding the barriers experienced by adults with learning disabilities when accessing fitness centres

Abstract

Background Many people with learning disabilities are unable to access fitness centres due to these facilities often being inaccessible and non-inclusive.Aim To examine the barriers and support experienced by adults with learning disabilities when attempting to access fitness centres.Method Participants were recruited from community organisations and fitness centres in a large city in Scotland. A total of 13 adults with learning disabilities and 12 fitness instructors participated in the study. Data were collected via a series of discussion groups using the nominal group technique.Findings The study identified several themes that were either barriers or supports to people with learning disabilities being able to visit fitness centres and take up exercise. These themes included the availability of assistance, getting to and from fitness centres, physical challenges, and the environment of fitness centres.Conclusion Assistance was the main support required by people with learning disabilities when accessing fitness centres, while fitness instructors required education to understand the needs of people with learning disabilities. Nurses have a health promotion role in educating fitness centre staff about how to interact with people with learning disabilities.