Inclusion and Accessibility

The links in this section offer suggestions for creating accessible and inclusive programs and facilities, and list strategies for understanding and overcoming the barriers to full access. 

Building Inclusive Physical Activity Communities for People with Vision Loss; Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness
James H. Rimmer notes that "options for exercise may be limited by the built environment, … inaccessibility of programs, equipment, and services offered in community recreation facilities."  He explores ways to build inclusiveness and access.

Exercising Your Right to Fitness: An Overview of the Accessibility of Exercise Equipment; AFB Access World
Darren Burton and Lee Huffman discuss "some of the issues involved in working out at your local gym or fitness center … [and] the accessibility of various types of exercise equipment."

Overcoming the Barriers to Including Students with Visual Impairments and Deaf-Blindness in Physical Education; American Printing House for the Blind
Lauren J. Lieberman and Cathy Houston-Wilson highlight "major barriers that impede the inclusion of students with visual impairments in physical education and … provide strategies for overcoming those barriers" ; reprinted from Re:VIEW.

PE and Sport; RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind)
Phil Sutcliffe discusses his experience working with a student with blindness in a mainstream setting, including assessment and practical matters.

Web-Based Organizations and Internet Resources

Inclusive Fitness Coalition
IFC's mission is "to increase inclusion and access to physical activity for people with disabilities."  The site includes suggestions for improving accessibility through principles of universal design and accessible equipment.