Dr. Mariah Gillispie-Taylor, MD FAAP & The Aldridge Arm™
When you meet Dr. Mariah Gillispie-Taylor, MD FAAP, you quickly realize she embodies her own mantra: “Lack of passion is fatal.” A pediatrician, lifelong athlete, and advocate for staying active, Dr. Gillispie-Taylor has faced physical challenges that might stop most people in their tracks — yet she’s found a way forward through adaptive fitness.
From Surgery to Strength
Earlier this year, Dr. Gillispie-Taylor underwent two major wrist surgeries in quick succession. The first removed an old joint replacement in her left wrist and installed a temporary rod. The second, just seven weeks ago, implanted a new wrist joint. With a permanent weight limit on her replacement wrist, her lifting days could have been over — but she wasn’t ready to give up.
“I’m probably using this piece of adaptive equipment forever,” she says, referring to the Equip Products Aldridge Arm™, which allows athletes with limited or no grip strength to lift safely without placing strain on the wrist.
Why the Aldridge Arm™ Matters
For Dr. Gillispie-Taylor, the Aldridge Arm™ isn’t just a workaround — it’s a gateway back to the movements she loves. In the photo above, she’s performing a deadlift just weeks after surgery. The Aldridge Arm™ secures around her arm, bypassing the need for wrist grip entirely, and allows her to safely train while protecting her surgical repair.
She credits the smaller XS harness for giving her the perfect fit and secure lift, making her workouts more comfortable and safe. “It’s such a better fit and way more secure with lifting,” she shares.
Representation Matters
“I noticed most of your photos/videos are of men for this particular piece. Let me know if you want any of them in case there’s another girl out there who needs some inspo.”
Her words hit on something powerful — representation in adaptive fitness matters. Seeing another female athlete using adaptive equipment can inspire confidence and possibility for others in similar situations.
“You can’t be what you can’t see (or read about), so I’m happy to share if it helps someone else be active,” she says.
The Bigger Picture
The Aldridge Arm™ was designed to help adaptive athletes, amputees, and those recovering from injury maintain independence and strength. For Dr. Gillispie-Taylor, it’s not just about fitness — it’s about continuing to live fully, on her own terms.
Shop the Aldridge Arm™: Equip Products Aldridge Arm™
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or looking for adaptive training solutions, Equip Products is here to help you stay strong, safe, and inspired.