Fitness centre proves major boost for disabled

Craven Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre is an accredited Inclusive Fitness Initiative Site – one of only a handful in the country to offer gym equipment and facilities that are inclusive to both disabled and non-disabled people offering a full body work out in the same way.

Its patrons include a man who travels from Accrington in Lancashire and a young girl from Harrogate.

The centre is also used by Mark Wilkinson, a physiotherapist based in Skipton who has been working with a number of spinally injured customers.

Penny Roberts, who regularly uses the fitness centre, broke her neck 17 years ago after plunging 13,000 feet in a skydiving accident, and is paralysed from the chest down.

The 49-year-old businesswoman, who has a 14-year-old son, learned about the centre from Mr Wilkinson.

Miss Roberts, of Ilkley, said: “It is very important because there are not the facilities for disabled people. I went to the gym before I had my accident and didn’t think I’d be able to go again, but I’m amazed at how accessible the machines are. It reduces pain, reduces spasm - it’s not just a leisure thing.”

Joan Ness, who is unable to walk following a virus infection 10 years ago, regularly uses the pool.

Mrs Ness, 62, of Gargrave, said: “I hadn’t been able to swim for 10 years and being back in the water was a wonderful feeling. The sessions with Mark have got me swimming again and have meant I’ve been able to walk in the pool. Being able to exercise has given me confidence and I feel much fitter and healthier. It’s just changed my life.”

The pools boast a unique pool hoist that allows customers to access the pools via a submersible wheelchair. All of the kit with the exception of the Abcoaster and rowing machines are IFI (Inclusive Fitness Initiative) accredited.