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Abstract
People with physical disabilities constitute the largest minoritized group in the U.S. and world,
and are susceptible to physical inactivity which elicits many negative health effects. Inactivity is
exacerbated by a paucity of opportunities to participate in structured physical activity (UPA) like
adapted fitness centers. In response, the present study sought to evaluate perceived accessibility of
unstructured physical activity in eight urban and rural locations between the U.S. and Scandinavia.
A mixed-methods questionnaire was developed to investigate four subdomains within perceived
accessibility: regional climatology, the built environment, public transportation, and psychosocial
interactions. Findings were situated within the Disablement Process Model and Socioecological
Participation Model of People with Disabilities. Facilitators increasing likelihood of physical
activity engagement included flat terrain, compatible footpath materials, accessible public
transportation, and inclusion. Barriers modulating participation included severe gradients, narrow
or nonexistent footpaths, inaccessible public transportation, and dependency. U.S. urban contexts
were deemed most facilitative of physical activity participation. Thus, wheelchair users are
equipped with content knowledge to effectively evaluate a region for adequate physical activity
accessibility, thereby encouraging the notion that activity opportunities should be made accessible
such that all can independently lead healthy lives.