Other issues can make using a fitness center difficult, such as bringing a service animal with you, using lockers, attending group classes, and using swimming pools. The following tips should make these experiences a little easier.
- If you use a service animal you should talk with staff to avoid any surprises or misconceptions.
- Think about where you will safely place your animal when you are using the equipment or swimming.
- Decide what you will do if your animal has difficulty with loud noises or music.
- Find out ahead of time how the lockers are used and assigned.
- If lockers are assigned at each visit, work with the staff to make sure you have a locker in a location that is easy to find. A corner locker may be the easiest to find.
- If lockers are given on a first come-first served basis, ask to be assigned a permanent locker to be sure one will be available to you to use when you visit.
- If you want to take part in a group class, get familiar with the room and any equipment before the class starts.
- Talk to the instructor(s) before the class to let them know you will be there, so you will both know what to expect.
- Tell instructors the best way to communicate with you, and ask them to describe what they are doing.
- If you want to use the swimming pool, first, get familiar with the pool area by walking the length and width of the pool.
- Learn where the lifeguard stand is and where other obstacles on the pool deck are located, such as pool toys (water noodles, kick boards, etc.)
- You may want to swim in the lane closest to a wall.