Special fitness equipment for the disabled has been set up in Beijing's Chaoyang Park. The equipment is specially designed for use by the disabled and is color coded to distinguish it from other fitness machines in the park.

Upper body exercise equipment?

Designed with people in mind

The upper body exercise equipment is lower than usual to accommodate wheelchair users. All users need to do is position their wheelchairs between the two exercise disks and start exercising.

Ten kinds of fitness equipment have been designed for disabled people. Experts say exercise is particularly important to disabled people who may be more prone than others to certain medical conditions.

Safety first

The fitness machines were designed with safety as a priority. Additional handles have been installed to help users keep their balance, and help them get on and off the equipment.

Government call for action

The General Office of the State Council last year called on the whole country to develop sports for the disabled in line with the spirit of the 2008 Paralympics. The Beijing Municipal Bureau of Sport commissioned the specially designed fitness machines that have recently made their debut in Chaoyang Park.

(China.org.cn September 11, 2008)