Browman D, Namvar J, Harp S; University of Central Florida Physical Therapy Program and Recreation and Wellness Center, Orlando, FL. djocean@aol.com.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this project was to explain the development and analysis of a student assisted workout program designed to provide assistance to students with disabilities in the university’s Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Prior to this program, the center provided an area of handicap accessible equipment, but did not adequately market to these individuals and assist them in a structured exercise program. Physical Therapy students, with faculty supervision, designed a program to assist these students with disabilities. FOUNDATION: Students with disabilities should be provided with an opportunity to exercise and promote their individual health and wellness, not only by having access to a facility, but also by having the necessary assistance required to complete an exercise program. This program began with a physical therapy student’s desire to assist a student with a visual impairment through a workout routine. With the assistance of other physical therapy students, physical therapy faculty, and staff from the center, this program was created. DESCRIPTION: The Student Assisted Workout Program is marketed through various campus resources and organizations. Each year, the Recreation and Wellness Center employs two or more physical therapy students that meet specified guidelines, as Assistant Workout Leaders, to assist students with disabilities during a general workout session. The goal of the exercise program is to promote general health and wellness for each student utilizing the equipment available in the wellness center. Participants complete the necessary documentation and are referred to physical therapy for an evaluation if necessary. The program involves exercises that include flexibility training, cardiovascular training, and strength training. An exercise log is kept to track the progress of all participants. OBSERVATIONS: The program has received above satisfactory reviews from the participants. More students than projected have enrolled in the program. Many participants in this program have reported that they would be unable to exercise without this assistance. The participants have also shown improved campus socialization and increased involvement in Recreation and Wellness Center activities. CONCLUSIONS: These steps for expanding the opportunities among students with disabilities hopes to encourage and lead them in many other interests, specialties, and personal involvement in and beyond the university. The future growth of this project will lead to a well developed program that will increase the section of ADA approved equipment and the commitment and cooperation of the Physical Therapy program. FUNDING SOURCE: Recreation and Wellness Center.

Copyright 2004 by the American Physical Therapy Association

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