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ABSTRACT
A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to learn manufacturer perceptions of the barriers and facilitators of designing and producing accessible fitness equipment. Eight participants familiar with the ASTM International (formally the American Society for Testing and Materials) Universal Design of Fitness Equipment standards were interviewed via a virtual platform. Audio recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and independently coded by two investigators using thematic analysis. Two primary themes emerged from the data, 1) Challenges and 2) Tipping the Scale. Challenges included a humanitarian versus a business model view, application of the ASTM International standards, lack of a market analysis, and safety and liability. Facilitators deemed appropriate to tip the scale include consideration of a carrot (reward) versus a stick (punitive measures), availability of a market analysis, ASTM International standard modifications and enlisting activism for cultural change and development of laws and policies to mandate inclusion of accessible fitness space and equipment. Legislative action appears to be a primary facilitator to increase the design, development, and availability of accessible equipment in fitness centers.
Acknowledgements
The contents of this manuscript were developed by RERC RecTech under a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research [NIDILRR grant number 90REGE0002]. NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The authors would also like to acknowledge Seanna Kringen and Stephanie Stephens for their help with this project.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).