Last month I began fitness exercise and training at Fitness Trainers.  Anyone can join, but they have a special program for people who have a physical disability.  You work one on one with a trainer to maintain, strengthen and improve movements and function.   I was introduced to this by my friend who has been training there for about 20 years!  All the trainers and clients seem to be really nice and are like family to each other.  I was assigned to a trainer, initial ~”M~”.  She has been doing this for years now!!!  She has also worked at Magee Rehab.  I felt like I hit the Jackpot!!! and won a million dollars with M. She is amazing!  She pushes me and makes me work ~but I Love It!!!  I’ve worked on the large exercise ball, the new step bike, the rowing machine, the arm press, battle crawled, ankle weights and more. By the time I leave I’m sweating!!! ~But feel great.  I am so grateful to be part of this program.

M also introduced me to other programs that she volunteers with that have adaptive sports for disabled people. So last week I attended one outing and went rock climbing. It was so invigorating. There were many volunteers helping to get me up that wall!  It was a little scary being strapped in to a harness making my way up to the top.  At times I felt like Peter Pan flying in air ~ especially on the way down.

Everyone said I did great for my first time.  I also enjoyed meeting so many new people.  After the climb, we had pizza and talked in a separate room at the rock gym.  It is so amazing to be a part of this program that gives people with disability a chance to experience this physical activity.  This was the best feeling!  I am looking forward to participating in other adaptive sports.  I will be doing adaptive surfing for the first time in August!  Can’t wait!!