Yarra Leisure partners with AUSactive to deliver inclusive fitness programs

A partnership with AUSactive is enabling Yarra Leisure to improve accessibility to Yarra City Council’s Our Empower and Empower+ programs.

AUSactive’s All ABILITIES initiative (Australia Brings Inclusivity to Life, Through Innovation, Transformation In an Exercising Society) facilitates education for fitness businesses and partnerships with disability service providers, which increases opportunities for people with disabilities and chronic conditions to access safe and effective group exercise.

Industry leaders including UNESCO Chairs, Inclusion Awareness Australia, Sport Inclusion Australia, Deaf Sport Australia and Blind Sport Australia are among supporters of the program.

Yarra City Council’s Empower vs Empower+ programs
An inclusive, fun and supportive space to meet other people and stay fit, the Empower program supports people with chronic conditions who require minimal support.

The fun and inclusive program is designed to help participants maintain an exercise routine and - training independently for the most part, but with a gym instructor there to offer support and guidance.

Empower+ is a strength training session for people with disabilities who require a high level of support. This program is perfect for people who can use gym equipment with the support of their own carer, including upper and or/ lower body movement.

One of just a few programs of its type in Melbourne, Empower+ is not just about building strength and fitness, it’s about making meaningful connections with people who have a shared lived experience.

As Yarra Leisure’s Troy Hill explained “our goal is to provide a safe, inclusive space, no matter who you are.

Hill went on to explain “we schedule these classes during traditionally quieter times in the gym to provide a lower sensory experience.

“Richmond Recreation Centre has recently undergone a number of facility upgrades including lighting, audio, energy and sound reduction upgrades aimed at providing more controllable inclusive spaces for those who may have auditory or light sensitivity issues.”

Image: A participant in the Empower+ Program at Richmond Recreation Centre.