Have you ever wondered what an Elliptical is, how to use a Leg Curl Machine or what people do with Medicine Balls?
Frequenting the gym is a staple for many Australians, but for those who are blind or vision impaired, it can be somewhere they have never set foot in for fear of unfamiliar equipment, a stack of trip hazards and perhaps, the often male-heavy-protein-drinking-bronze-power-lifting culture associated with gym culture.
On Wednesday the 30th of April, Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria organised for a group of six people with vision loss to attend the newly renovated Fawkner Leisure Centre for a guided introduction to gym equipment and strength based exercises.
Instructors, Khalid and Tracey, and Senior Health & Wellness Coordinator, Alanda Packer, had undertaken BSRV’s Vision Loss Awareness Training prior to this visit, and were later congratulated by participants for creating such a safe, fun and inclusive program.
Deaf blind participant, Rodney, said that the rowing machine was his favourite, while Merri-bek resident, Martha, loved the leg press – “…honestly, I live so close to this gym and I’m now thinking of joining. I had no idea I had so much strength. I absolutely loved it today. I had the best time!”
After an hour and half of ‘working out’, the group enjoyed a well deserved coffee and snack in the leisure centre’s cosy café.
Check out Ron and Rodney having fun and working out in the gym.
Thank you to BSRV volunteers Liz, Cas and Jas, as well as the City of Merri-bek for all your support.
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