Most weight-lifting machines available today are designed for use by individuals without disabilities. Fortunately, there are several options for individuals interested in an accessible or user-friendly weight training experience.
Access by Pulse Fitness Systems manufactures eight different upper-extremity weight machines designed with seats that swivel to the side, allowing access to individuals using wheelchairs.
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Two weight lifting machines - one that's Not accessible the other Accessible. |
Progym, distributed by Flaghouse (pictured left), and Ability Flex, distributed by No Boundaries (pictured right), provide single-station, multi-exercise training within a relatively small space.
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The Progym - an accessible exercise equipment. |
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The Ability Flex - a multi-exercise, single-station machine for wheelchair users. |
The Equalizer 1000 by Helm (pictured left) is a multi-station, multi-exercise unit designed to allow several people to work out at the same time. Uppertone by GPK (pictured right) is promoted for individuals without handgrip strength and provides unassisted exercise.
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The Equalizer 1000 - an accessible multi-station, multi-exercise unit. |
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The Uppertone machine is promoted for individuals without hand grip strength and provides unassisted exercise. |
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A Rickshaw - triceps extension machine. |
A triceps extension machine (Rickshaw Exercisers) builds muscle strength needed for transfers, pressure relief and wheelchair propulsion.
Wrist Cuffs(pictured below) - Individuals with various degrees of hand function can wear wrist cuffs or activity mitts in order to participate in weight training.
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A person wearing Wrist Cuffs to help with lifting weights. |
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Wrist Cuff to help with weight lifting. |
Activity Mitts - Gloves or activity mitts are also available for individuals with limited or no grasping ability. These gloves are particularly effective for gripping bars on weight machines or free weights like barbells.
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Activity Mitts - gloves that are used for individuals with limited or no grasping ability. |
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Activity Mitts - gloves that are used for individuals with limited or no grasping ability. |