The Orthotic & Prosthetic Activities Foundation recently launched First Fit at the Amputee Coalition Limb Loss Education Day, in conjunction with the O&P World Congress in Orlando, Fla.
The goal of First Fit is to provide practical fitness tips, along with assistance on machines or weights to give amputees a balanced and effective workout.
The event was led by personal trainer Kirsten Quick and NFL Hall of Famer Joe DeLamielleure. More than 60 amputees attended, along with family and friends and a large group of volunteer O& P students from St. Petersburg College, Fla., led by their instructor, Angela Courtade, CPO.
Quick worked with Don Davis, Sr., a bilateral amputee, to demonstrate core strength exercise, while DeLamielleure worked with several individuals using fitness bands for muscle strengthening. Amputee participants also tried equipment in the workout facility, including the treadmill, the elliptical and free weights.
“The fact that there were [physical therapists] around to help you with the other equipment was fantastic. So many times we are afraid to go to the gym because we don’t know what machines we can do and don’t want to look foolish if we can’t get in one of the machines or get stuck in one,” Julie Suttles, a First Fit participant, said in an OPAF press release.
At least three more First Fit Clinics are scheduled in conjunction with Amputee Coalition Limb Loss Education Days across the country in 2014.
