
Over the summer the SDSU Adaptive Fitness Clinic successfully launched a new Adaptive Group Exercise Class to serve community members with developmental disabilities. In conjunction with the St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, the class empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to realize their full potential. Currently, the class serves 17 consumers from St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center with the plan to increase the number of registered customers this Fall Semester.
The addition of the group class has facilitated the expansion of the Adaptive Fitness Clinic and allowed them to provide additional adaptive fitness classes to the community. Also, 388 ENS students will be offered a new and unique learning experience for the Fall 2017 semester, thanks to this great collaboration between programs.
Melisa Newlin, who led the pilot program this summer, said “It truly makes my heart happy to provide an environment for the consumers of St. Madeleine Sophie’s where they can test and improve their physical strength and balance. Physical strength builds confidence which will pour into other aspects of their lives.”
The adaptive group exercise class at the SDSU Adaptive Fitness Clinic is unique in San Diego, as there is currently no other facility in the county that offers adaptive group fitness for people with physical and developmental disabilities.
The Adaptive Fitness Clinic was featured on the August St. Madeline Sophie’s Center newsletter. Community member, Karen Milan- Garcia wrote about her experience at the Adaptive Fitness Clinic and San Diego State University. Check out her article!

No Pain, No Gain By Karen Milan-Garcia
Hello! My name is Karen Milan-Garcia, and I want to say, “Thank you St. Madeleine’s for giving me the opportunity to go to San Diego State University.
Adaptive Fitness Class.” When I get to work out, I feel great because I know my body feels stronger every day. My body feels sore, and it is good that I have pain because, “No pain, No gain!” I will never give up until someday you guys see me get out of my wheelchair by myself and not need it anymore. I know this class will help me reach this goal. Thanks again to everyone who has made this possible!