Instructability, a partnership programme run by Aspire and YMCAfit to train disabled people as fitness instructors,has been granted the Inspire mark by the London 2012 Inspire programme.

The key purpose of Instructability is to increase the number of disabled people becoming fitness instructors in the health, fitness and leisure sector by providing free training and support to secure work placements. By providing access and support, the immediate aim of the project is for more people who have a disability to become fitness instructors.

Longer term it is hoped that by increasing the number of exercise professionals who live with a disability, who also work in the industry, it will increase the number of positive role models which will encourage  more disabled people, and those with chronic or life-limiting health conditions, to be inclined to use fitness facilities or undertake more regular exercise. 

The London 2012 Inspire programme recognises innovative and exceptional projects that are directly inspired by the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

Lord Seb Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games said: ’Instructability is encouraging disabled people to fulfill their potential. I am proud that with the help of partners such as Aspire & YMCAfit, we are delivering our vision to use the power of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games to boost participation in fitness.”

The next Instructability course starts in February at the Surrey Docks Watersports Centre.  If you are over 16, use a gym and have a disability, contact Aspire for further information on 020 8420 6716 or email info@aspire.org.uk