SPIRIT Club, a pioneering Maryland-based gym known for its inclusive approach to fitness classes and facilities catering to individuals of all abilities, is making its mark in Northern Virginia.
Founder Jared Ciner identified a gap in the fitness industry, noting that many gyms are not conducive to welcoming individuals with varying levels of physical or mental abilities.
"It could be anything from the environment itself—the culture of the gym might not be welcoming," Ciner explained. "Classes might be designed in a way where a person with an intellectual disability might struggle to follow the instructions, or physically, modifications for exercises might not be offered for those in wheelchairs."
To address this, SPIRIT Club has expanded into Northern Virginia through partnerships with local gyms like REPFIT in Herndon and eXurb Fitness in Fairfax. They offer personal training and group exercise classes conducted by SPIRIT Club instructors. Interested individuals can find detailed listings and schedules on SPIRIT Club's website.
"Our goal is to establish enough programs in the area to eventually have our own gym space, similar to our facilities in Kensington and Columbia, creating an inclusive, integrated fitness hub in Northern Virginia," Ciner shared.
SPIRIT Club was founded by Ciner in 2013, with its first location opening in Kensington, Maryland, in 2015. Another facility launched in Columbia about a year ago, and plans are underway for a new site in Baltimore.
Ciner's personal background as a support counselor for adults with developmental disabilities influenced the ethos behind SPIRIT Club. Beyond offering a universal design for fitness, the club aims to foster community and holistic wellness.
"I realized that using fitness as a tool could help people not just with physical health, but also with building social connections, improving mental and emotional well-being, confidence, and mood," Ciner explained.
A unique aspect of SPIRIT Club is its staff composition, where many trainers and administrators have disabilities or relevant lived experiences. Ciner believes this fosters a strong sense of belonging among participants and staff alike.
In 2015, Ciner co-founded the Spirit Club Foundation, which supports individuals with disabilities by providing financial assistance to access fitness programs. The foundation is currently developing initiatives to assist with transportation costs for individuals who lack means of getting to gyms.
"For those who desire to exercise at a gym but face transportation barriers, we aim to supplement those costs or connect them with resources," Ciner said.
SPIRIT Club's expansion into Northern Virginia signifies a step towards more inclusive fitness options, reflecting a broader societal shift towards accessible and welcoming wellness spaces for all individuals.
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