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Adaptive Fitness Special Needs Certification For Trainers & Professionals
100% online inclusive adaptive fitness training for special needs and other disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and more.
My son, who has a brittle bone condition, worked with Daniel for six months to develop custom workout programs that are safe and... increase his strength and endurance. We absolutely love Daniel. He is very supportive and understanding about the challenges that result from my son’s condition and was flexible to accommodate recovery workouts when fatigue or injuries (not due to the workouts) occurred. He covers everything from proper workout form, safety, nutrition and even additional supports as needed. The workouts are fun too. Most of all, he is a real mentor that has helped my son cultivate the habit to be responsible to care for his body so that it can last him a lifetime. We highly recommend Daniel or anyone from Special Strong.read more
Chris T.
Great place. The people are amazing
mitch M.
Special Strong has been amazing for our son with autism. His coordination has improved so much and he is gaining some muscle! His... coach is super encouraging and really helps build his self-esteem. Special Strong has been a HUGE blessing! We are so thankful we found Special Strong!read more
Kristi P.
Special Strong has such amazing team and coaches. Our autism son was so much more relaxed, confident and happy in the tough teen years... with these workouts. The workouts build strength, agility and more in a fun routine that meets the individual's needs. Highly recommend doing a trial class. You'll be begging for more.read more
Sharisa L.
With staff having undergone training for special needs youth and adults, they know the "sweet spots" for balancing the physical... training while working with the disabilities.read more
Larry J.
Great for social interaction and fun athletic class!
Karen H.
I love it
Rainbow E.
We had our initial evaluation this weekend and we’re very impressed with report we were emailed. Hoping this helps Sammy get more... active and helps him improve in all areas.read more
REBECCA C.
Special Strong has been awesome for our son. His trainer communicates well and plans workouts that are challenging. His trainer also... takes time to teach proper form which has really reduced injuries and setbacks.read more
Amy Kahle W.
My son has become more confident in himself and his ability to become physically fit and lose weight. This would not have been the... case if he did not meet his trainer, Adam, who inspires him to do his best. We are thankful for his patience and encouragement. Special Strong is the best!read more
Karen L.
Daniel was able to evaluate and prioritize fitness targets for my mentally and physically handicapped adult sister. He has a positive... energy that makes for an enjoyable training experience.read more
Marie B.
As a colleague of Manju in the ABA field, I have seen first hand her special ability to work with individuals with special needs. She... is kind, compassionate and full of positive energy. Her love of fitness make her an awesome member of the Special Strong team. I promise you will love her!read more
Jill L.
My daughter Joy loves the workouts at Special Strong. Coach Adam keeps things moving and makes the workout fun! This is a great... program to improve physical fitness for the special needs community!read more
Jamie G.
I was looking for something for my son with Down Syndrome to pull him out of the depression of losing his job to Covid and this... experience has been wonderful for him! Not only the physical activity but the kindness and encouragement that has been shown to both of us has been inspiring. Highly recommend this program because these people REALLY are genuine and care about their clients.read more
Barbara L.
I love what you do Daniel! Your profession and specialty is very admirable. And to so many people you remind us all to be better... people and do more for others. Keep up the good work!read more
Eric V.
This organization deserves to be featured across the Country as an innovative leader in the service industry for differently abled... individuals. Their Adaptive & Inclusive Fitness Training is motivational, inspiring and most importantly provides health and wellness benefits to a population which is often unable to access conventional programs. As the parent of a 24 year old multiply disabled young man, I would love to see a program like this developed in our area! Please spread the word about Special Strong!read more
khartigan777
Wishing Special Strong were in my area. Truly appreciate the posts on LinkedIn where Daniel has been building confidence, pride, and... smiles for his clients. His passion and commitment is a reminder to me that we all need angels in our lives who continually encourage and support us.read more
Alanna C.
Daniel and his clients have reminded me that anything is possible which has inspired me to rekindle my exercise routine. I have now... accomplished physical feats I never thought possible. Thanks you all!!read more
Kerry O.
I've been working in the ABA field for over 5 years and love fitness. Fitness has been such a positive outlet in my life whether is... for physical health but also for my mental health. It wasn't until the pandemic hit that it dawned upon to merge my passion of ABA and sharing my love of fitness. I googled personal training and that is where I found Special Strong. From day 1 I was hooked-I read the curriculum and the requirements to obtain my certification and what sealed the deal for me was when I got a text message from the owner/founder himself Daniel-making himself available to answer any questions I had (mind you on a saturday). I loved how Special Strong was started and love seeing the clients on IG and their successes and how much fitness has helped them. The modules are easy to follow and broken down for you to understand and to apply with potential clients. I can't to take my test for my certifications and to become of the Special Strong Family.read more
Cecilia G.
I have not personally worked with this group, but the amount of love and passion that these clients and staff show everyday is... amazing. Keep up the great work.read more
Mike H.
What an amazing organization!!! Daniel and his Team are beautiful angels! Thank you for all you do!
A Loving N.
Daniel's mission is super important. He inspires all of us. Please support his cause. If you are able to sponsor beautiful people... with disabilities - please do!read more
Gil
I am very happy with my courses with Special Strong! I have worked with individuals with special needs for years in schools. I decided... I wanted to train after working with many clients and saw a need for fitness in the community. I am so glad I came across this certification. The course is very well written and I found easy to navigate. Thank you so much Special Strong . I am excited to start this new journey!read more
Marisa Nicole M
Love the class. Learned alot. Cant wait to start with my new clients.
Pamela A.
As the mom of an adult son with an Intellectual Disability and a Special Educator I found this program to be informative and well... done! I learned about putting together a great fitness program for individuals with special needs. I loved all of the video modeling done throughout the program. I am super excited to see where this certification takes me and how I can combine my two passions of fitness and teaching individuals with special needs.read more
Katie M.
This course was amazing . It was extremely easy to work with and provided a lot of videos and tips for working with those with... special needs and disabilities . Highly recommend this certification for trainers that are looking to work these individuals .read more
Jen R.
Jacob's Ladder Special Needs FitnessPublished by Tony D'Orazio · 9 mins ·Just Completed the Level 1 trainer certification through... Special Strong. Loved the course including the various video training examples. I learned more about the various types of challenges and techniques for successful training in this population. The philosophy is consistent with our Christian beliefs.I will use the knowledge I have gained to continue our mission at Jacob's Ladder Special Needs Fitness.read more
Tony D.
This course is fantastic for people looking to learn more about working with or training anyone in the special needs community. They... break the course down in easy to understand sections. Daniel is super friendly and has great information to share.read more
Caroline C.
Enjoyed completing the Level One certification course offered through Special Strong! As a parent of a teenager with autism, I see the... need out there! Thank you for offering this!read more
Stephanie G.
Excellent course! A well rounded course I learned...
Jesus G.
Our time with Special Strong was an immense blessing! Daniel did a fantastic job with my mom. Autumn was incredibly helpful in getting... us on track towards healthy eating. We are so thankful for Special Strong and what they've done for our entire family.read more
Sarah B.
It is wonderful to see my son enjoy exercise.My son does many sports with Special Olympics and he has been increasing strength and... stamina in his play. He is a healthier and more confident in his sports as well, thanks to his weekly workouts with Special Strong. Consistency is helpful too.read more
Cristy D.
Sonia is an awesome personal trainer and will work with you to help you accomplish your goals. She helps you every step of he way and... will take time to accommodate your workout training. You will love working out with her because she will keep you motivated.read more
Suzie O.
Sonia is an exceptional human being! She is kind, generous, strong, and hard working. She always has a kind word of inspirational... encouragement for you!read more
Tara B.
Heather, a special strong trainer, is a skilled, compassionate trainer who consistently shows a special heart for her clients. She not... only provides individual workouts to her clients, but demonstrates constant patience and love to those of all skill levels. Anyone would be lucky to work with her!read more
Keri S.
I highly recommend Sonya! She is the sweetest and most caring person you will meet! She is also knowledgeable, encouraging, and very... passionate about what she does. You will be in great hands!read more
Melissa V.
5 star review!!!Heather is an amazing trainer! Not only is she awesome at her job, but she makes you feel confident in yourself as... well.She is a great with her clients, personable, understanding, professional and engaging! I highly recommend her and Special Strong!read more
Christine Nimnicht S.
I have known Heather for at least 3 years and she is a very loving person. Heather puts her heart into the hurting and this is her... gift from God! When I heard about Special Strong and what they can do I was so excited that Heather is working with such an amazing place. If you have a special needs person in your life, you know it is very difficult to be alone with your spouse/family. One of the parents always needs to be with them. Just to have a community with people that really cares and supports you is so important. Bent Tree is one of the few churches that had a ministry class so the parents could worship together. Daniel goes to the Bent Tree church and he is using his gift to do so much more! Special Strong with Heather and the rest of team are not just helping the parents and family, they are teaching exercise, relating and understanding the needs to each one of your loved ones! I have read a lot of the reviews and how the parents are just so blessed with what has changed with their special one.read more
Rose B.
To know Heather Spriggs is to love her. She is both beautiful inside and out. She is the most amazing young woman that has a wonderful... heart that shows every moment and to everyone she come into contact with. She is a rare breed in today’s world with grace and kindness, and is a genuine good person that is hard working and patient when it comes to others. She surrounds herself with people that are like minded and have great values.read more
Shane E.
I’ve only known Heather a short amount of time, but in that time I’ve learned that she is genuinely caring, humble, and hard working.... She truly has found her niche with working with these kids. There could not be a better person for the job with her warm heart and vibrant personality. Can’t wait to see what else you accomplish with this company, Heather!!read more
Elise H.
I’m delighted to write a review for an amazing employee at this wonderful establishment. Heather Blanton has a heart of gold! I have... two special needs children who tend to be hesitant at time with strangers, or aloof to activities. They both took IMMEDIATELY to Heather. She has such a kind and soft demeanor. She got to their level, praised them, engaged them, and was able to captivate their attention. It’s rare to meet people with such a gentle demeanor and strong skill set. I couldn’t recommend working with her more!read more
Nicole M.
I’ve known Heather for a few years and can’t think of a better calling for her. She is extremely caring, patient and gives everything... she does 110%. I am happy someone like her is making such an impact on people’s lives!read more
Stephen R.
Heather Blanton is such a beautiful loving spirit, crowned with a generous and passionate nature, and sharpened with a bit of Aggie... excellence. Heather's time as a gymnastics team member, coach and as a personal fitness trainer have developed her skills and provider her with the experiences to make a real difference in the lives of those around her. You could see the joy and glow from within as Heather discovered her God-given path, to be a part of a very special and strong team.read more
Greg B.
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Heather for several years now. She’s a very sweet and caring individual who brings enthusiasm and... positivity to her daily interactions.read more
David A.
Heather is the best trainer! She is the sweetest person, so knowledgeable, and you can tell how much she loves to train people just by... being around her for 2 minutes! I promise you won't regret having a session with her.read more
Caitlyn P.
Heather Blanton is one of the Special Strong trainers & she really is the sweetest person. She’s got a very nice demeanor when she’s... training with her clients! She really is the best! Go check her out!!read more
Katlin L.
Special Strong is a geat place with compassionate leadership. Heather has finally found her calling. She has always sought out ways... to help people. Her compassion is able to shine helping those in need.read more
Charles S.
Special Strong brings something to the fitness industry that no other company brings! Not only does it give kids with disabilities the... opportunity to improve their health and daily lives, it allows them to do this while be surrounded by Gods amazing love! My wife Heather is a trainer for Special Strong and comes home from work everyday with such a bright light in her! She has a true passion for every single one of her clients and with her background in kinesiology is very creative with her workouts to make it not only challenging but fun at the same time! You will never meet a more encouraging and loving individual who loves God so much, while also loving every client through Gods eyes! I’m so excited to see whats in store for Special Strong!read more
Travis B.
Heather Blanton is the best person and most motivating trainer that I know. Her amazing heart and compassion make her a perfect fit... for Special Strong. She loves making an impact in lives, and she loves nothing more than helping. She is an amazing person! We love you Heather!read more
alex F.
I have known Heather for several years and there isn’t a more kind-hearted individual and she’s perfect match here at Special Strong!... Her passion and how much she genuinely cares will bring the best out of anyone.read more
Zach T.
Lee Seale was awesome! Very nice and took great care of us. Such a genuine and caring guy!
Albert K.
Special Strong uses research and lifting techniques designed for the special needs community; it is an amazing program - I have seen... my special needs brother empowered through fitness; he also has become stronger because of it. It has been a blessing to watch.read more
Zach A.
Daniel is amazing. He was my personal trainer a couple of years ago and one day he told me about his dream of working with special... needs kids. He told me the concept of Special Strong and I could hear the excitement and passion in his voice. He had a special needs client at the time and I got to see Daniel in action. He is a truly gifted and compassionate human being. He found his calling and made it happen. You can not ask for a better role model and champion for your child.read more
Chezelwhit204
I've known Heather for a few years now and I've never met a sweeter, more kind-hearted person than her! She is an extremely hard... worker and one of the most inspiring and positive people that I know! This is more than just a job for her, working with these amazing kids is truly her passion and something she was born to do! She has found where she belongs within this wonderful business. Heather, I am so proud of you and I can't wait to to see how you change these kids lives with your bright personality and compassionate heart!! <3read more
Keri D.
Heather is such a kind-hearted woman with a permanent smile on her face. She has such a wonderful ability to maintain a positive... outlook and has an enduring patience. She is a great representative for your organization!read more
Carrin S.
Phenomenal!!! Heather Blanton is phenomenal!!! As is special strong!!!
Tony F.
I’m so excited to see something big happening with Special Strong. My sister in law Heather Blanton joined the team a few months ago.... In my book this speaks to the unlimited potential the organization has to effect serious change in our community. She is the epitome of perseverance and loving kindness. Special Stong provides the opportunity for her to share these gifts and continue seeking growth on a larger scale. I look forward to seeing this partnership thrive and am personally grateful to be able to witness this.read more
Kala B.
Special Strong - Health & Fitness for Special Needs and particularly the founder Daniel C Stein run an amazing program designed around... the special needs community.I admire his compassion and desire to really empower and provide a better quality of life using fitness as a medium.Daniel is constantly networking and trying to understand the needs of his clients. In his quest he runs into other service providers. When those service providers share the same values he does, he is generous enough to pass them on to his clients.Daniel is constantly attending seminars and keeping up with the latestest research specific to the diagnosis’s or disabilities he is training.read more
Terry S.
Lee, what a great trainer. I have been training with him for years, over time we have become good friends(priceless friendship). Lee... pays attention to me during my workouts, Knows whe it’s time to slow down, make changes to my workout for the best results. He has with time taken the weight off, it has stayed off and replace the weigh with muscle. Now he works on keeping me at the weight best suited for me. I have always enjoyed Lee being my trainer and could not see myself working out with anyone else.Jeff.read more
Jeff W.
I was a fan of the mission of Special Strong long before I met Daniel. Having worked with autism for so many years, I knew his growing... company filled such a unique and needed place for these special guys and gals. My respect and admiration of Daniel, his company and his staff has only grown through the years. Service, integrity and faith. A great combination!read more
Dan S.
Very kind and hard working leadership!
Felipe G.
Daniel, the owner of Special Strong, is really great. I know that I would never have achieved the level of fitness and wellness if not... for the personal attention given in my training sessions. During our sessions, Daniel was always very encouraging and had a vast knowledge of his profession. I definitely recommend Daniel to anyone looking for great quality personal training. While training with Daniel, he ensured that my technique was always correct to avoid any injuries. He was extremely reliable and punctual – always set up and ready to start training ahead of time, with an exercise routine planned. He was always creative and focused on helping me achieve my goals and made every session challenging and somehow fun, so much so, I actually looked forward to my workouts.read more
Elena R.
While I've not had the occasion to use Speical Strong's services I have seen Daniel Stein's heart and his passion in action. Daniel... is someone who cares deeply for his clients and will do anything within his power to help them. His joy has been evident in every interaction I've had with him and I have no doubt that any interaction with Danil and/or the staff of Speical Strong will be top notch.read more
John B.
Love seeing the incredible life-changing results from Special Strong in McKinney. Love seeing the smiles, confidence and “strong”... success on their clients.read more
Chris C.
Special strong is truly amazing! It warms my heart to see what God is doing through this fitness ministry. I have known Daniel for... many years. I have watched him grow in his walk with the Lord. God has blessed him with so many gifts. He has so much compassion for those who are physically challenged. His impact on the people he works with and trains is immeasurable. I love watching the videos and seeing pictures of all the progress his clients are making. There is always an encouraging word, praise for an accomplishment, and support from all those who support special strong. When I think of Daniel and all he’s doing with special strong I think of the scripture Matthew 25:23. I think of God smiling down from heaven saying “ well done good and faithful servant.” I am honored and blessed to support this ministry and will continue to pray for Daniel and his team.read more
Kelly C.
I met the owner Daniel Stein in his early 20's. It was truly a God ordained meeting. That day God put him on a trajectory to become... the man he is today and to have witnessed that transformation and to see his passion for health and fitness grow to what it is today from when I met him is truly miraculous! His selflessness and earnest care for the special needs community is unlike anything I have ever witnessed in the health and fitness world. This young man will be known by millions one day and will transform the health and fitness industry for the special needs community, of this, I have no doubt!read more
jason R.
I have known Daniel for many years and his love and passion for people is infectious. I love seeing all the Special Strong success... stories, what an encouragement to see such joy and accomplishments for his clients. I am personally inspired by what God is doing through Daniel and Special Strong and it brings me such hope for our community and our future. Check out Special Strong, you will be blessed!read more
Chad H.
Daniel is amazing. He is a wonderful trainer with a fantastic heart and immense passion for what he does and each and every one of his... clients. Special Strong helped me do things I never believed were possible. Learning new ways to do things has always been a huge part of my life. But in a place where physical activity was demanded (a gym), I never thought it was somewhere I belonged. I was proven wrong and made stronger after each session. Thanks Daniel! You made me Special Strong!read more
Amber R.
Special Strong has been a part of Anytime Fitness Plano for a while. Daniel and his trainers are very professional and are a blessing... to these special needs kids. Keep up the great workread more
bubba W.
Sonia Torres is truly the best personal trainer you could have. She is extremely dedicated to her work and always puts her clients'... needs before everything else. She is so kind and caring to all of her clients. She is not only an amazing trainer but also an amazing human being.read more
Fardousi R.
I worked with Sonia Torres at Fitness Connection in Garland, and she’s such a great trainer! I feel she would be perfect for Special... Strong 💪🏾 🙌🏾read more
Patrick C.
Lee is great! Top notch. Motivational and gives easy to follow instructions. Love the results
Paul E.
Sonia was my first, and bestest <3 personal trainer. She is a beautiful person inside and out. Very patient, down to earth, insightful... and encouraging. I miss working with her. She is a phenomenal lady!read more
Amy S.
Great organization that has provided training for one of our programs. Their trainers are knowledgeable and fun and love those with... special needs!read more
Sharyn K.
Sonia is one of the hardest working trainers I know. She puts in the time to research so that she can pass along the best practices... for her clients. Great outgoing personality makes you instantly comfortable in her taking care of you. Highly recommend her!read more
Blaine C.
Daniel is so much more than a personal trainer and businessman...he is a dignity-and-hope restorer who lifts his clients to a higher... place of physical, mental, and emotional health. His joy (and gift) is to see others meet and exceed their own goals and expectations. I’ve recommended Special Strong as a unique resource to all of the school districts I serve.read more
Brenda C.
Akilah sets such a positive tempo for the crew at nonPareil. She’s loved by everyone that takes part in her classes. The crew really... look forward to the days that she comes. Her impact is tangible, encouraging, and enduring. 5/5 couldn’t give a higher recommendation!read more
Jonathan C.
Exemplary service, really knows how to take care of individuals will connecting with them as well!
Paul A.
Daniel is truly one of a kind. He is passionate and sincere about what he does and what his company represents. I have had the... pleasure of working with him and I am absolutely astonished with the relationships and progress he has built with his clients! His number one goal and mission is to provide/teach the special needs population to live a more independent and abundant life, and that in itself is AMAZING!!!read more
Sonia T.
Sonia is the best! She’s a very positive and inspiring!
Brenda N.
In my personal opinion, Akilah is one of the most energetic and sincere individuals I know. She will go above and beyond for those... she cares about. She's hardworking and she never gives up once she sets her mind on something. She is an amazing mother, coach, and friend.read more
Paige B.
Sonia is extremely patient, kind and devoted to her work! If you go, ask for her!!She is extremely up beat, professional and caring.
Chelsea D.
Sonia is an amazing trainer and you can tell she is extremely experienced!!! Love her personality. It’s easy to come train with her... because she demonstrates everything so well!!!read more
Joan L.
Special Strong is such an amazing company with amazing trainers!!! A majority of the population doesn't understand the difficulties... that children, adolescents, and adults are faced with when their mobility is limited. Special Strong does such an amazing job with helping these individuals and boosting their confidence all at the same time! 🙂read more
Tamika H.
As seen on
Brandon Neal walks for the first time in eight years after training with Special Strong!
CBSE Adaptive Fitness Training Model
Our Special Strong adaptive special needs personal trainers have used our scientific CBSE adaptive fitness training model to train over 1,500 children, adolescents, and adults with mental, physical and cognitive challenges.
Who We Are
By the age of 21, Daniel Stein had been diagnosed with a learning disability, mood disorder and autoimmune disease. After successfully using exercise to overcome his unique challenges, he felt called upon to help others with disabilities obtain healthier, happier, and higher functioning lives. Daniel obtained certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT), and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
In 2016, Daniel and his wife, Trinity, launched Special Strong, one of the only fitness centers in the country for individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Today, Special Strong continues to specialize in adaptive and inclusive fitness training and is making a difference in the lives of children, adolescents and adults all over the world.
What We Do
Special Strong provides adaptive personal training and group fitness socialization classes to individuals with mental, physical and cognitive challenges.
Who We Serve
Our Special Strong personal trainers have proudly served over 1,500 clients with various mental, physical and cognitive challenges including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injuries, stroke survivors, spina bifida, paraplegia, and many other conditions.
Adaptive Special Needs Exercise Gallery
Check out our adaptive special needs gallery to learn more about us, watch workout videos, and more.
What Our Clients Say
Over the past two years, my son got diagnosed with several medical conditions. He lost so much physically, spiritually, and emotionally. As he began to heal, I knew he needed more. When I found a personal trainer and a nutritionist through Special Strong, they were able to use their passion and skills to bring life back into my son. Thank you, Special Strong for giving me my son back.
Karen W. (Josh)
Since starting Special Strong in 2016, my son, Robert, has fewer meltdowns and has developed more endurance for physical activity. Robert needed an outlet to manage his meltdowns and help with flexibility. He can now endure 55 minutes of physical activity and can finish his entire PE class at school! Robert’s teachers have told us how much improvement they have seen in his behavior and he is learning to listen and follow directions without my having to be there to ensure that he listens to his instructor. I also got to speak with a nutritionist through this program. She is working with me on helping Robert develop better-eating habits. Since that started, he is more willing to eat greens and drink water! I am so grateful for Special Strong and everything they have done with my family!
Jennifer H. (Robert)
I love Special Strong! After working with Daniel for six months, my son got accepted into the 2018 national Special Olympics games! Jarred was able to gain the strength and confidence he needed and also improved his balance and stamina. This new strength and confidence also helped him decide to join the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Daniel is wonderful with kids and adults of all abilities. He is patient, and he knows how to adjust and adapt his workouts to the ability of the student.