The University of Evansville has completed a pilot program designed to make fitness more accessible for adults with spinal cord injuries, according to a community announcement.
The program, called All A.C.C.E.S.S. Fitness, was developed by the university’s Department of Physical Therapy in collaboration with 517 Fitness and a task force of physical therapy alumni and community leaders, according to the announcement.
The 16-session program was conducted over 10 weeks, with five participants from the Evansville region. It was funded by Welborn.
Adults with spinal cord injuries are at higher risk for chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic pain and depression. While regular physical activity can help reduce these risks, many individuals with spinal cord injuries face barriers to exercise, such as inaccessible gym spaces, limited adaptive equipment, transportation challenges and a lack of fitness professionals trained to work with individuals with disabilities.
Program offers specialized training, support
All A.C.C.E.S.S. Fitness aims to address these barriers by providing individualized strength and cardiovascular training in an inclusive environment. The program is supported by specially trained personal trainers and overseen by licensed physical therapists who monitor safety and outcomes related to fitness and quality of life.
“Individuals living with spinal cord injury often face significant barriers to accessing safe, effective exercise opportunities in their own communities,” Hannah LaMar, clinical assistant professor at the University of Evansville, said, according to the announcement. “All A.C.C.E.S.S. Fitness was designed to remove some of those barriers by creating an inclusive environment where participants can build strength and gain confidence alongside trained fitness professionals who understand their needs.”
The program’s leadership team is exploring opportunities to expand the initiative and serve more individuals living with spinal cord injuries throughout the region.
This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, NTazeen@usatodayco.com , with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.​
