Definition: “Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are concepts that describe the value of people’s differences and the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all.”

Exercise can evoke strong feelings in anyone, and especially for differently abled individuals, who might feel self-conscious of our bodies or the ways in which we are able to move them. Sweating and increased temperatures may bring sensory sensations to the forefront. Maybe you are suddenly aware of how your socks feel, or a tag in the back of your shirt. Balance and spatial awareness can make many exercises and classes feel daunting, but I strongly believe that living an active lifestyle should be accessible for everyone, and that everyone can belong in the JCC.

After settling into my personal training career at the JCC I deeply connected with a neurodiverse client who was looking for manageable ways to incorporate more joyful movement into his life. Working with him allowed me to get curious about the ways I could better serve this population. After months of working together and researching ways that felt both emotionally and physically rewarding for him, I had a better understanding for Why fitness was especially important to these populations. On top of the usual reasons that living an active lifestyle benefits any person, fitness can help with physical health, mental health, activities of life, and reduces risk of obesity and disease.

There are more nuanced needs for people of differing abilities. Prone to more frequent episodes of depression and sleep disturbances as well as at higher risk for obesity and sedentary lifestyles diseases, this group is often sidelined from mainstream activities due to misconception and oversight, lack of health promotion, information, training and resources of staff.

After I began working with the JCC’s Gesher program, a program that serves individuals with disabilities, I again felt called to figure out a way to make movement accessible for anyone. This population has growth potential for more active lifestyles, but maybe not the same fitness programming as neurotypical and/or able-bodied clients. I became certified as an Inclusive Fitness Specialist from ACSM (The American College of Sports Medicine) which allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of working with differently abled individuals and to become a support to other trainers at the JCC.

JCC trainers have experience working with individuals diagnosed with autism (ASD), down syndrome, cerebral palsy, quadriplegia, fragile x, anxiety conditions, PTSD and more.

The JCC currently offers the following inclusive equipment

• Nu-Step: A seated stepper machine. The seat swivels so it is accessible for people with limited mobility.
• Recumbent Elliptical: A seated alternative to an upright elliptical which requires no balance while still giving a full body cardiovascular workout.
• Arm Bike: Especially good for anyone who may not have full use of lower extremities and can be done seated or standing and the seat is adjustable and wheelchair accessible.
• TRX can modify a lot of exercises
• Cable Machine can be done seated or standing and has the option for being used from a wheelchair.
• Low Stretching Table which provides easy access for people in wheelchairs or individuals unable to get on the ground.

In addition to the equipment we offer, the way our trainers’ approach each of our members is tailored to their specific needs. Whether that means switching things up often due to boredom or keeping the routine more consistent due to rigidity or anxiety, bathroom breaks, knock-knock jokes between sets, whatever it takes. Our members are more than clients to us and their success is ours. The most important thing I hope for in the future is that every one feels welcome in a gym, and that no one questions whether an increase in lifestyle activity would be beneficial to them, because the answer is always yes!

For more information about personal training at the JCC, contact Annie Kostovny Akostovny@jccpgh.org 412-427-1545