We want more! Examining the perceived training and information needs of health and fitness practitioners about disability and physical activity

Jennifer Leo; Jennifer R Tomasone; Rebecca L Bassett-Gunter; Tara Joy Knibbe; Amy Latimer-Cheung

doi:10.1139/apnm-2022-0239

We want more! Examining the perceived training and information needs of health and fitness practitioners about disability and physical activity

Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2023 Feb 1;48(2):226-230. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2022-0239. Epub 2022 Nov 24.

Authors

Jennifer Leo¹, Jennifer R Tomasone², Rebecca L Bassett-Gunter³, Tara Joy Knibbe⁴, Amy Latimer-Cheung²

Affiliations

¹ The Steadward Centre for Personal & Physical Achievement, Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H9, Canada.
² School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
³ School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, 4700 Keele Street, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada.
⁴ Abilities Centre, 55 Gordon Street, Whitby, ON L1N 0J2, Canada.

PMID: 36423353
DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2022-0239

Abstract

A lack of disability-specific knowledge among practitioners poses a significant barrier to physical activity (PA) participation for persons with physical disabilities (PWPDs). This study aimed to identify perceived training needs of health and fitness practitioners to support PA for PWPDs. Canadian health and fitness practitioners (n = 115; 81% female) completed an online survey. More specialized training and access to information about PA for PWPDs are needed. In-person training, webinars, and lived experiences of PWPDs are recommended.

Keywords: adapted physical activity; disability; exercise; health promotion; resources; training.

MeSH terms

Canada
Disabled Persons*
Exercise
Female
Humans
Male
Physical Fitness
Surveys and Questionnaires