The University of Central Lancashire joins the Accessercise app’s University trial programme
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) will pilot a revolutionary fitness app designed specifically for people with disabilities.
Accessercise, which was created by Paralympic medallist Ali Jawad and multiple world champion sailor Sam Brearey, will offer workout suggestions to the University’s disabled students and staff, allowing them to exercise independently and safely.
The app includes unique exercise libraries tailored to different impairments with the ability to schedule workouts so users can track their progress over time, an explore section which allows users to rate the accessibility of gyms and sporting facilities in their local area, and a social hub where users can connect and support other users.
The pilot programme, which was launched recently, we grant free access to the app for 12 months to allow disabled students and staff to keep fit and active independently whilst studying.
"The Accessercise app helps more of our students and staff to experience the benefits that exercise can offer to physical wellbeing"
— Dr Adrian Ibbetson, UCLan’s Director of Sport
Dr Adrian Ibbetson, UCLan’s Director of Sport, commented: “In our quest to become a healthy and active university, our aim is to encourage as many people as possible to build physical activity, exercise and sport into their everyday lives.
“The Accessercise app helps more of our students and staff to experience the benefits that exercise can offer to physical wellbeing.
“The social dimensions of the app can also help to reduce isolation, build relationships and facilitate friendships, all of which are central to positive mental wellbeing.”
UCLan is one of three UK universities currently piloting the app, with another eight in the pipeline.
"Accessercise aims to drive the much-needed change in inclusivity, equality, and accessibility for the disabled community"
— Paralympic medallist Ali Jawad
Para-powerlifter Ali, a former world champion who has competed in the 59kg weight division of four Paralympics, is the Chief Operating Officer of Accessercise.
He said: “We are delighted to have UCLan piloting the app, helping their disabled community become healthy. We are looking forward to supporting UCLan’s mission for inclusivity and accessibility.
“Accessercise and UCLan have a real chance to change the lives of so many disabled people, breaking down barriers, and empowering its students by providing resource, knowledge, and support. Accessercise aims to drive the much-needed change in inclusivity, equality, and accessibility for the disabled community.”
UCLan students and staff can download the Accessercise app and gain premium access by emailing the Inclusive Support Team.