Usability Test of Exercise Equipments for the Deaf in a Gym: Focusing on the Observation and Interview

This study aimed to derive the requirements for access to exercise equipment for the deaf in indoor gymnasiums. Therefore, a usability evaluation was conducted on the use of muscle strength and aerobic exercise equipment installed in a gym in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, targeting five men and women aged 19 to 65 years. To proceed smoothly with the research, the researcher and sign language interpreter explained and interviewed the people who are deaf on how to use the exercise equipment. The participants performed the task based on a scenario consisting of four stages: entry-exercise-regulation-exit in the exercise equipment. The researcher observed the process of performing each participant's exercise steps, conducted a postmortem analysis of the images and photos, and conducted a one-on-one interview after the participant's exercise equipment was used. The observational survey confirmed that all people who are deaf who participated in the usability evaluation had difficulty checking and understanding basic exercise information, such as how to use exercise equipment, posture, and risks on their own, regardless of their experience using exercise equipment. In addition, differences in proficiency, such as learning how to use and recognizing risks in using equipment, based on exercise experience were observed. In addition, through a one-on-one interview survey, the need to provide information on risk feedback using visual and tactile senses and correct exercises described in sign language rather than text was derived. The results of this study are intended to be used as basic data for future studies on guidelines for the production of exercise equipment that can be used by individuals who are disabled and those who are not.