A new adaptive fitness gym franchise headquartered in McKinney, TX, is bringing the latest scientific approach to fitness to individuals with physical and mental disabilities, including those suffering from conditions like Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Muscular Dystrophy.
Special Strong’s programs are custom designed for children, youth, and adults with physical, mental, or cognitive challenges, says Daniel Stein, who together with his wife Trinity, launched the company in 2016.
In 2011, Daniel felt a calling to help provide physical fitness training for young children, adolescents, and adults who have special needs. He set out to achieve his goal by becoming certified in many areas, earning certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), one of the most respective physical fitness certifications in the nation.
In 2019, Special Strong developed a training system called Special Strong University, comprised of both virtual classroom and onsite training, Daniel explained. “Classroom training consists of over 80 hours of training, where the new franchisees learn how to run a business. There are 30-40 hours of practical training, where franchisees shadow other trainers to get hands-on experience with adaptive clients.
Today the franchise has received an enthusiastic reception by individuals with physical and mental disabilities, as well as franchise applicants across the U.S., according to Daniel.
“We teach strength training combined with science-based brain movements,” he explained. “Recent studies have shown that this type of training not only help musculoskeletal development, but improved circulation and speeds the increase of BDNF, which is like miracle grow for the brain that has a terrific positive effect on wellness, including physical and emotional well-being.”
Stein emphasized that the program is fun for participants of all ages, with customized physical therapy and exercise programs to help those with mental and cognitive limitations live a more independent and abundant life.
“We offer one-on-one training and group classes for kids, young adults, seniors and anyone with mental, physical, and/or cognitive disabilities. All of our training is individualized for each person.”
Special Strong provides customized health and fitness services through certified trainers. “We have helped over 1,500 clients with special needs and other disabilities to thrive and overcome their challenges with our program. It’s been amazing to see lives and families changed because of Special Strong.”
Their goal is to train others who are interested in adaptive fitness as personal trainers or in opening their own fitness training center. Today, they are expanding rapidly with people inquiring all over the world about opening a Special Strong gym franchise.
For more info: www.specialstrong.com/gym-franchise