Using a Fitness Center Does Not Have to be an Exercise in Frustration: Tips for People with Mobility and Visual Disabilities
4.2 Physical Accessibility Barriers and Solutions
| Barriers | Solutions | |
| Simple/Low cost | Involved / High cost | |
| Parking spaces are too narrow | Use cones and/or tape and temporary signs to mark additional parking spaces | Restripe parking area to include ADAAG required widths for accessible parking spaces |
| No curb cuts | Install a temporary ramp between the parking area and the sidewalk or an accessible entrance | Install permanent curb cuts |
| Ramp is too steep (should be 12 inches long for every 1 inch of rise) | Install a temporary ramp between the parking area and the sidewalk or an accessible entrance | Lengthen the ramp, or rebuild it to include switchbacks |
| High countertop in check-in area makes it difficult to see staff and sign in | Place sign check-in equipment on a side table or use a clipboard | Install a lower countertop or lower a section of the existing counter |
| Facility has two floors but no elevator | Ask staff to move equipment that you use to the ground level | Install an elevator |
| Interior doors (especially into the locker room) are too heavy | Ask staff to adjust the door closers and oil the hinges to make them easier to open | Install power-assisted or automatic doors |
Ramp with one switch back
A lowered counter lets a scooter user easily check in, reach and use the phone.
An accessible-entrance; the pushbutton next to the door reads, “Push to Operate Door” and activates a power-assisted door opener.
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