Assistive Technology for Fitness

While physically challenged people previously had a hard time coping with any physical or fitness activity before, these days it's possible for them to do things they were not able toq. Thanks to technological advancements and the scientific revolution, assistive technology has been developed to help people with disabilities wanting to undergo physical fitness programs.

  1. Assistive Devices

    • Assistive technology refers to the general term used to describe devices that help people with disabilities. These devices are adapted to individuals and helpful in the rehabilitation process. There are many kinds of assistive technology used these days. Examples include electric wheelchairs, walkers and advanced gym equipments designed for disabled users. Assistive technology has also benefited from the digital revolution in the form of computer software and hardware components that contribute to the design of assistive devices.

    Disabilities Act

    • The development of assistive technology has been supported by the Assistive Technology Act of 1988. This Act has been widely applauded by the public in support of people with physical handicaps. The Act has provided "financial assistance in maintaining and strengthening a permanent comprehensive programs of technology-related assistance, for individuals with disabilities of all ages."

    Fitness Equipment

    • Assistive technology had a great impact on the development of physical fitness devices. While initially it was intended to just aid heavily disabled people, both disabled and "normal" user can now benefit on designs and functions that allows for greater usability and flexibility. Physical fitness equipments found in gyms and other rehabilitation sections of hospitals have built in programs and automated assistance services for easier use. Speech recognition software is also used on some of these machines for easy access.

    Automated Equipments

    • Assistive technology is used in physical fitness training and rehabilitation on different gym equipment. Some of these machines are now automated and have built in programs that can recommend a specific workout program. Some machines also adjust themselves according to the workout goal of the individual. For instance, treadmills these days have sensors that automatically adjusts the speed and inclination settings beneficial to the desired fitness program. They can also recommended different types of workouts based on an individual's weight.

    Rehabilitative Devices

    • Just like in gyms, assistive technology is also used in physical rehabilitation in hospitals and in clinics. Some seating devices provide therapeutic and corrective effects that help people improve their posture. There is also equipment that help injured people who have lost their capability to stand, walk or run on their feet. More advanced devices are being invented and developed to help people recover from a previously disabled state (See reference 3).