Adaptive Strength

Absolutely not - we cater to everyone, no matter what your fitness background looks like. Whether you've never touched a weight, or you're a seasoned lifter, our coaches are here to help you move your body in a way that works for you.

If you're asking this question, the answer is probably yes. One of the most common feedback items we've received is that people aren't sure if they're 'disabled enough' to warrant taking a spot in this program. We want to assure you that if your disability impacts your movement or makes you question if typical gym classes are for you, you have a space here. Our goal is break down the barriers that prevent people living with a disability from attending gyms, taking up space, and improving their physical and mental health.

There are a few options for where we can train, based on your fitness & accessibility needs.

The first option is to train within Wild + United Athletics (823 McPhee Ave, Courtenay), which is a gym that prides itself on inclusivity, and is actively working on being more accessible to all abilities. This location is accessible for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids, with potential limitations around specific care needs - a site visit is always encouraged before deciding where we will train, to ensure the location meets your needs.

The second option is to train in our private at-home gym location (located in Marnie's home, founder of the Adaptive Strength Association). This may be ideal for those with sensitivities to sound or light, or wanting complete privacy. Please note, this is in a typical private home, with ramp access at entry if required, though the bathroom may not meet the needs for those requiring transfer directly from chair to toilet. (*allergy note: there is a cat present in the home, though will be in a separate room during your session, and does not spend time in the gym)

The third option is to train at your home. This option can be ideal for those who plan on working out at home going forward, as it allows us to create a space-specific training plan where you can take into account the equipment and space you have available to you on a daily basis. Some equipment can be provided by your trainer for the sessions if required. (Please note: homes must be within 15kms of downtown Courtenay)

The fourth option, which may not always be available, is to train at a gym or rec center of your choosing. Many facilities do not allow outside trainers, though we are more than happy to connect with a potential location to see if they would allow us in on a case-by-case basis as a non-profit organization. This can be helpful for those who want to train at a specific location that meets their accessibility needs, but need some guidance on how to utilize the equipment.

If you'd like to continue training after these 5 sessions, our usual rate is $80. Because we understand that finances can play a big factor in your life, we can offer a discounted rate of $60 for those still needing some financial support. If finances pose enough of a barrier that would make training impossible, please talk to your coach, or email [email protected] to discuss continuing with a $40 rate, or if a full sponsorship may be available. We are a small non-profit that relies on the generosity of local people and businesses to fund these sponsorships, so full sponsorships may not always be able to be accommodated, but we will help as much as we can.

Depending on your goals, there are a few options that can happen integrated with, or after, you do up to 5 sessions with your trainer.

For some people, they may do 2 or 3 sessions, try out a group class or a solo training session, then come back for another session or two to review how it went on their own, and any adjustments that may be helpful.

For others, they may choose to do just a session or two, then break out on their own either at a rec center or at home.

For some, it may be doing 5 sessions has taught them that personal training is where they'll do their best growth, and continue on with a personal training package.

These options will be discussed both during our initial consultation, as well as throughout training, to determine where you see yourself fitting exercise into your life.

Absolutely! If you have a person or animal that aids in your safety, communication, or comprehension, they are more than welcome to come with you to your session to assist or observe. Please let us know during the consultation if someone will be joining you :)

Our goal is to help people that feel like they have limitations in their training due to their conditions or ableist standards in our society. If you have an injury that has changed the landscape of your training for the foreseeable future, this may be a good place to start. Please note: we are not physiotherapists, and work within our scope as strength trainers - if you're unsure, your best bet would be to discuss with your doctor if rehabilitation is required before starting training. Many of our clients come to us as their rehabilitation plans come to an end, or in tandem with a specialist. We have some great recommendations for local physios and other practitioners - if you're wanting some suggestions, please email [email protected].