Tools for Inclusion of People with ID in Fitness
These resources were developed with funding from the Special Olympics Inclusive Health Innovation Grant, supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to help fitness centers expand inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
Strategies to Expand Inclusion of People with Intellectual Disabilities in the Fitness Community
With funding from the Special Olympics Inclusive Health Innovation Grant, supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this project focuses on building tools and resources to help fitness centers offer more programs and services for people with intellectual disabilities, and raising awareness and engagement.
SMASH IT! An Inclusive Small Group Training Program Template
SMASH IT! was developed by staff at the UNESCO Chair in Inclusive Sport, Fitness, Recreation, and PE now based at Munster Technological University. This template provides 8 weeks or 24 sessions of hour-long programming that is appropriate for people with and without disabilities.
Special Olympics Fitness Assessment Tools
Evaluation is a key component of any successful program. Special Olympics International has developed several template resources and surveys to help fitness club operators assess and track participants and clients’ progress.
Perspectives of People with Intellectual Disabilities on Gyms and Gym-based Programs: Survey Report
A survey of over 300 people with intellectual disabilities to better understand and explore their perspectives around exercising at a fitness facility, and to identify barriers and facilitators to gym-based exercise as well as offerings and services people with ID prefer at the gym. This report outlines the key findings and makes recommendations for how health clubs can make their facilities welcoming and supportive of prospective members with intellectual disabilities.
Special Olympics Inclusive Fitness Training
This online course, provided by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) provides knowledge and guidance fitness professionals need to successfully include individuals with ID in fitness opportunities. The course reviews unmet health needs, health disparities, and access barriers people with ID experience, as well as principles and strategies for effectively communicating, instructing, and motivating individuals with ID. This includes methods for inclusion, activity modification, program design, and fitness assessment. Additional Special Olympics resources will also be provided. This course offers 0.1 ACE Continuing Education Units.
SMASH IT! Training Videos
These videos, filmed and produced with the help of Gainesville Health and Fitness, provide an overview of the components of SMASH IT! and provide examples of the program in action.
EBOOK
10 Ideas for Implementing Inclusive Practices in Your Club
A brief guide for health clubs who want to begin implementing inclusive practices. The 10 ideas include guidance on updating your marketing materials, optimizing offerings, working with community groups, establishing policies, and more!
UFIT: Universal Fitness Innovation and Transformation
UFIT is a global social change movement that supports clubs to become leaders of inclusion in their communities.
Online Program
Take this free course to get started with UFIT. Learn about the program and how it can help your club establish inclusive practices.
Universability Audit
The Universability Audit provides a template for assessing and reflecting on current inclusive practices.
