Being inclusive with your services is really about taking that bird’s eye view of everything you offer and making sure individuals with a disability can participate. In Part 2 of this series, we covered inclusive instruction and educated staff, which is obviously key, but individuals also need to be able to get to your class and be successful and engaged while they are there. For example, it may be helpful to provide multiple instructors in a class or a peer assistant who can help when needed as the instructor gives instructions.  

Also, ensure that your staff uses inclusive language in their classes so that all individuals feel welcome to participate. For example, instead of just saying “walk” or “jog,” they could say “move.” If someone requires an interpreter, that service should be included at no extra charge to them.  

Providing accessible transportation or knowing where and how someone could find accessible public transit could be a big benefit for your clients with disabilities who don’t drive.  

Your services are what sell your fitness center over the competition. If you aren’t including people with disability in those services, you are missing out on a tremendous opportunity to serve the one in four adults in the U.S. who have a disability—not to mention the revenue that comes with reaching that underserved population.