Our equipment includes the following:

1. Treadmill - as our program has increased in scope and number, we have begun to purchase

   A man on a treadmill attached to a harness and suspension system.

   commercial treadmills. We recommend purchasing the most durable machine within your budget. This usually comes with a better warranty. The treadmill should be long enough to allow for good stride lengths and have handrails in front and along the sides.
2. Harness and suspension - The harness and suspension system enables us to secure participants over the treadmill. It allows for independent movement while protecting against falls. It is important that the exerciser can concentrate on acquiring the new skills required for the walking program without undue concern for safety. Likewise, the health care provider can concentrate on making the participant feel comfortable while teaching the client to walk on the treadmill. The harness and suspension system must be able to withstand the full weight of the exerciser. Many commercially made systems are available today, including Lite-Gait and Biodex (RecTech Equipment Database; NCHPAD search) that are designed to be used both over a treadmill or on level ground. We do not have experience with these specific products since our system predates them and was custom-built to our specifications. The harnesses should come in a variety of sizes to accommodate all body types and the suspension system should allow for ease of movement on the treadmill at varying speeds and inclines. Regardless of the system you choose, the emphasis should be on a product that will support full weight in the event of a seizure, aggressive behavior, a trip or potential fall, or simply fatigue that was not verbalized or anticipated.
3. Heart rate monitors - we have found the simplest to be best; we are currently using Polar brand heart rate monitors (www.polarUSA.com) and except for needing to send them back for battery changes to ensure that they remain waterproof, we have had good success with them. We purchased them on the Internet but most sports stores, including chain stores, carry them.
4. Body fat analyzer - We use the OMRON Body Fat Analyzer but many other manufacturers make this product. Our intention is to obtain as quickly and as easily as possible as much documentation for comparison of pre- and post-exercise participation, not necessarily to get the most accurate data. Other techniques for calculating body fat were either not available to us or required expertise that we did not have. This device provides percentage of body fat and fat mass in pounds. Body Mass Index (BMI) is another tool that can be used to determine if someone is underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. It considers the relationship of height and weight but does not take into account age or level of fitness. It does not give specific information about percentage of fat.
5. Blood pressure monitor
6. Height/weight