Our month-long celebration of ZOOZ Fitness’ 10th anniversary continues with a look at what it takes to build an inclusive, accessible gym from the ground up.
Determining the exact number of accessible gyms for individuals with disabilities in the U.S. is challenging due to limited comprehensive data. However, existing research highlights a major gap in accessibility within the fitness industry:
Approximately 61 million adults in the U.S.—one in four—live with some form of disability.
A study of 533 fitness centers found that accessibility for people with disabilities was generally poor, with inadequate access to bathrooms, equipment, and parking.
In 2021, the Exercise and Fitness for All Act was introduced to address these barriers, reinforcing the ongoing need for inclusive fitness spaces.
For the past 10 years, Jake Weiner has been dedicated to changing this reality with ZOOZ Fitness, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have a place to train, move, and thrive in the greater Los Angeles area. As a trailblazer and thought leader, Jake has set a new standard in an industry that remains largely inaccessible.
“People with disabilities have limited access to exercise facilities and opportunities, and at the same time, they are disproportionately impacted by lack of movement,” Jake said. “After working with people with disabilities for years and seeing this reality, I was determined to change it.”
10 Lessons Jake Learned in Creating an Inclusive Gym:
Maximize Open Space – Ensure plenty of room for movement, reducing clutter and barriers.
No Mirrors – Minimize visual distractions and support individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Standard Equipment Works – Adaptive equipment isn’t always necessary if coaching and cueing are effective.
Versatile Equipment – Choose multi-functional equipment to accommodate various abilities, ensuring variety in texture, size, color, and weight.
Private Training Rooms – Provide quiet spaces for sensory reduction and individualized sessions.
Grip Support Options – Offer wraps, Velcro straps, and other aids for individuals with weak or no grip.
Spacious Waiting Area – Design a large, comfortable front area for parents and support staff.
Clear Body Cues – Use spot markers and other visual/tactile cues to support movement guidance.
Functional Training Area – Utilize colored turf to create texture, define spaces, and enhance visual appeal.
Hiring Matters – Finding the right trainers—who have both fitness expertise and experience working with individuals with disabilities—is key to building a truly inclusive gym.
Some of the equipment at ZOOZ Fitness.
Stay Tuned!
Our 10-year celebration of ZOOZ continues! Look out for more TOP 10 lists, including:
✅ 10 favorite exercises from ZOOZ trainers
✅ 10 reasons trainers love working at ZOOZ
✅ 10 goals ZOOZ athletes have for the future
✅ 10 aspirations Jake has for ZOOZ’s future
✅ 10 essential fitness tips for a healthier life
✅ 10 reasons why accessibility matters in the gym
✅ 10 best moments of ZOOZ over the past decade
Thank you for being part of our journey—here’s to the next 10 years of strength, inclusion, and transformation! 🎉💪
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