Fitness Accessibility for Disabled: New Standards for Equipment and Classes
This Act aims to ensure that gyms, fitness clubs, and other sports facilities must offer equipment and classes accessible to individuals with disabilities. This means citizens with mobility limitations will gain greater opportunities to independently use exercise machines and participate in fitness instruction. Within 18 months, guidelines will be established regarding the number and type of accessible equipment, followed by Department of Justice regulations to enforce these changes, including mandatory staff training for assistance.
Key points
Accessibility Requirement: Gyms, fitness centers, hotels, and schools (considered public accommodations) will be required to provide equipment and instruction accessible to individuals with disabilities.
New Equipment Standards: Official guidelines will be developed specifying how many and what types of machines (e.g., treadmills, stationary bikes) must be accessible for independent use by disabled individuals.
Staff Support: Fitness centers must ensure at least one employee is trained to assist individuals with disabilities in using the equipment and must notify patrons about the availability of this assistance.
Communication Features: Guidelines will also cover communication features, such as closed captioning on monitors, audible output of visual content, and controls designed for people with limited dexterity.
Expired
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