In your gym, how easy is it for wheelchair users and people with other disabilities to access your selectorised resistance equipment?

There have historically been IFI (Inclusive Fitness Initiative) approved models where, for example, seats can be removed for wheelchair accessibility. But what about machines where nothing needs to change – where they’re accessible to all users with no modifications?

This is the premise behind the TECA Total stations from strength specialist TECA Fitness, which Physical is proud to exclusively distribute in the UK.

TECA Total comprises pin-loaded resistance stations with clean, simple, seat-free designs - easily accessible by walking or in a wheelchair.

Long levers and extended handles can be gripped at multiple heights, making them suitable for, and inclusive of, users whether they’re standing or seated in a wheelchair.

The spacious, seat-free design makes the equipment accessible and comfortable for those with obesity, while the multiplanar machines feature adjustable settings and enable varied movement planes to further accommodate all users.

The weight adjustments are bright and highly visible for those with poor eyesight, while a timer unit for circuits features both light and sound alarms to move to the next station.

TECA Total stations are also suitable for rehab work, helping restore coordination and balance, as well as offering significant benefits for those with conditions such as cerebral palsy, says TECA Fitness’ Elio Carrera: “Multiplanar machines are designed to engage multiple muscle groups across different planes of movement, as well as the core. This can help improve motor control, coordination, range of motion and overall stability.

“Repeated use of these machines in therapeutic settings has also been shown to help stimulate neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections.

“By simulating real-life movements such as reaching, stepping and bending – all in a controlled environment – TECA Total can help individuals with cerebral palsy to improve their functional abilities in everyday tasks.”

He adds: “There really are numerous applications for these machines, with gyms and centres in Italy already using them to serve a diverse population with different forms of disability.”

And of course, able-bodied and disabled users can train together in the same circuit class, as no equipment modifications are required beyond weight selection.

“TECA offers superb equipment for a very wide range of users and abilities” enthuses James Anderson, marketing and sales director at Physical.

“For able-bodied users, as well as disabled users who are able to stand, TECA Total stations train the whole body for everyday movements. By standing up throughout each exercise, you aren’t just training one specific muscle group: the core and other muscle groups also kick in to stabilise the movement, while the standing posture facilitates correct spine alignment to protect the back.

“For wheelchair users and people with other mental and physical disabilities, TECA Total offers a genuine opportunity to train alongside all abilities. It brings inclusivity alive on the gym floor.

“This equipment removes the distinction between disability fitness and able-bodied fitness. It removes the stigma around distinct equipment for specific user groups. This is inclusive, accessible strength training. Fitness for everyone”.

TECA Total is the inclusive range from TECA Fitness, which partners exclusively with Physical in the UK. Other ranges include TECA StandUp, TECA Advanced, TECA Easytone and TECA Core Zone.