Sports and Fitness Center (SPOFIT) here in Phoenix, Arizona is a very special place. It is not brand new, but definitely new to me. I'm not sure how I missed it for the year or so it has been open. SpoFit is a gym especially adapted in a multitude of ways for people with physical disabilities. I realize sometimes the word disability is considered politically incorrect, but the gym proudly uses this terminology in the description boldly stated on the front of the building. Virginia G. Piper Sports and Fitness Center... for Persons with Disabilities.

"SpoFit’s mission is to provide exceptional adaptive sports, recreation, aquatic and fitness programs that promote the independence, health and overall well being of people with disabilities and their family members."

Last Monday I went with Kyle and Angelica (his program 1:1) to check out SpoFit and discover why my friend who has a teen with autism was raving about it. All we had to do was enter the building to understand her enthusiasm.

No weird looks or stares. Nice. We were immediately welcomed and offered a guided tour. Kyle's interest was peaked by the 1/4 mile softly cushioned track on the second floor above the basketball court and adaptve rock wall. The stress of being at a brand new place and not being sure what was going to happen or what was expected, was eased a bit when Kyle saw the track. He walks a similar track at a local community center. He wanted to take a brisk lap before proceeding to the amazing weight room.

Machines of every type filled the large open weight room. So many choices and all potentially adaptable to people with different challenges and abilities. The room was quiet and nearly empty at the time we were there which was a nice way for Kyle to take it in for the first time.

Our guide patiently answered our questions. He told us that he worked out there and also worked on the floor during some hours helping people use the machines.

Next stop, the pool area. Two heated pools and a jacuzzi. The pools have various adaptive ways (elevator!, lifts, etc.) of getting in and some nice user friendly stairs with railings which is perfect for Kyle. He often has trouble in unfamiliar pools. An enthusiastic aquatics instructor was proud to give us the complete low down about the pool facility.

SpoFit has various classes, activities, and events for participation by a wide range of people with varied challenges. They are ultra accommodating and even allow people of the opposite sex to use the locker rooms when necessary. They recognize people who go there may need assistance and their goal is clearly to make the gym accessible. They offer sessions with a recreation therapist at very reasonable prices. In fact, the price of a 12 visit punch card or monthly memberhship is extremely reasonable and comparable (or better) to the large chain gyms around town.

I feel like I have just discovered a gold mine. This will be a great place for Kyle, especially in the summer. More importantly, it is a place he can use comfortably with many of the obstacles he (we) face already eliminated. Now he will just have to get comfortable on some of that amazing equipment. Exercise is such an important outlet for all of us, including Kyle.

Should people with special needs or disabilities have their own special gym? What about inclusion and accommodation at any gym? There can be  obstacles for some people at regular gyms who often need more accommodation than a special parking place.

I believe this "special gym" is a really great thing. It's such a relief to be in an environment that gets it. Kyle can be Kyle and it's ok. Love that.

PS  "The Virginia G. Piper Sports & Fitness Center (SpoFit) believes that no one with a disability should be excluded from the benefits of physical fitness, recreation and participation in sports due to lack of financial ability. SpoFit relies on donations to offset the costs involved in operating the center." Just sayin :-) 

DONATE

http://www.spofit.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/2013-SpoFit-Logo.png