A co-designed mixed methods study on community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood onset disability

Explore community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability.
Non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability participated in four, weekly gym sessions co-facilitated by physiotherapists and exercise professionals. Practicalities of participating in the sessions were recorded via uptake and attrition, weekly surveys, and focus groups. Perspectives of those who designed/delivered the study were gathered via weekly debrief meetings. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, qualitative data were analysed thematically.
Ten non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability participated; 70% completed all exercise sessions. Focus groups identified three themes. “I wouldn’t be able to exercise…there’s no option for a community-based setting” described the lack of opportunities for exercise in gyms. “You don’t realise the benefit of coming here” highlighted benefits of exercise. “We can do better” had two sub-themes: problem solving and ingredients for community-based gym exercise. Weekly feedback and debrief meetings identified practicalities related to equipment, exercises, and collaborative working between facilitators.
Whilst there is an interest in community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability, there remains a lack of inclusive gyms. Co-design of inclusive gym guidelines and condition-specific physical activity referral scheme may enhance opportunities for participation in gym exercise for adults with childhood-onset disability.

Adults with non-ambulant childhood-onset disability want to access gyms to self-manage their condition.
Accessible facilities and provision of dignified toileting would reduce the barriers to participation in community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability.
Specialist rehabilitation staff and support are necessary to facilitate participation in community-based gym exercise by non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability.

Adults with non-ambulant childhood-onset disability want to access gyms to self-manage their condition.
Accessible facilities and provision of dignified toileting would reduce the barriers to participation in community-based gym exercise for non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability.
Specialist rehabilitation staff and support are necessary to facilitate participation in community-based gym exercise by non-ambulant adults with childhood-onset disability.