As part of the Research & Design Programme between the IFI and equipment suppliers and manufacturers, the first forum of 2008 took place in February.
The IFI have been hosting Research & Design (R&D) Forums since 2003. The purpose of the R&D forums are to provide clear advice, guidelines and standards to participating partners about how to design and develop suitable inclusive fitness equipment. Currently, there are 9 proactive international fitness equipment suppliers and manufacturers who are R&D Associates for 2007-2009.
The programme takes a holistic and multidisciplinary approach, researching barriers and solutions by consulting with disabled users, fitness professionals and research and design teams from leading manufacturers.
Seven suppliers attended the first R&D Forum of 2008. Representatives who attend the R&D forum come from a range of backgrounds including marketing, sales & product design. Within the agenda for the meeting, included the latest information on the IFI’s current Audio Feedback Project, presented by Dawn Hughes & Christopher Forrest.
During this presentation, a number of key topics were discussed on how audio feedback can be integrated into fitness equipment and the future IFI Stage 3 equipment standards. The presentation also focused on how testing groups will be used and which key conclusions should be accomplished before the next forum.
The interest shown by the R&D associates showcases the important work being undertaken by the IFI, making the fitness experience accessible for grassroots participants through to Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
For further information on the R&D programme, please contact Dawn Hughes on 0114 257 2060 (textphone users add prefix 18001 to access BT Typetalk) or email dawn@inclusivefitness.org 
