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Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, impacting memory, cognition, and independence. While there is currently no cure, research consistently shows that exercise can play a powerful role in improving the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Movement is more than just physical activity; it can be a tool for maintaining independence, supporting brain health, and fostering emotional well-being. Boosting Brain Health And Slowing DeclineExercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients that help nourish brain cells. Studies suggest that regular physical activity may slow cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s by supporting the brain’s ability to form new connections (neuroplasticity). Aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, has been shown to improve executive function, attention, and processing speed. Supporting Physical IndependenceAs Alzheimer’s progresses, maintaining mobility and strength becomes increasingly important. Exercise helps:
By focusing on functional movements, exercise gives individuals the best chance to preserve independence for as long as possible. Reducing Stress and Improving MoodLiving with Alzheimer’s can bring frustration, confusion, and anxiety. Exercise is a proven mood booster. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” chemicals, which help reduce stress and ease symptoms of depression. Group- or partner-based exercise can also provide valuable social interaction and combat feelings of isolation.  Enhancing Sleep QualitySleep disturbances are common in Alzheimer’s, often making symptoms worse. Regular movement helps regulate the body’s internal clock, promoting more restful sleep. Better sleep not only benefits the individual but also eases the caregiving experience for loved ones. A Holistic Approach To CareAt Specialty Athletic Training, we believe exercise is about more than sets and reps. For individuals with Alzheimer’s, movement can be a gateway to improved quality of life. Whether it’s a daily walk, a strength session, or a group activity tailored to ability, exercise provides meaningful moments of empowerment, connection, and joy. Exercise is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, but it is a powerful tool. It strengthens the body, stimulates the brain, and uplifts the spirit. Every step, stretch, or movement is a step toward greater independence, dignity, and quality of life.
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When most people think about exercise, they picture lifting weights, running on a treadmill, or training for a sport. But for many of our clients, movement is much more than that. It's a gateway to independence. At Specialty Athletic Training, we've seen firsthand how improving strength, balance, and coordination can transform daily life. Being able to lift a grocery bag, navigate stairs, or get up from the floor without help isn't just a "fitness goal"—it's freedom, confidence, and the ability to take on the world one movement at a time. MOVEMENT BUILDS LIFE SKILLSEvery squat, push, or reach has a purpose. Squats translate to sitting and standing without assistance. Core work improves posture and stability, making walking and self-care tasks easier. Grip strength can mean opening a jar independently for the first time. These wins may seem small from outside, but to our clients and their families, they're life changing. We design training sessions around functional movements that mimic real-life activities. This way, the work we do in the gym directly impacts the way our clients navigate their day. Whether that's transferring from a wheelchair, cooking a meal, or carrying their own backpack.  CONFIDENCE THROUGH CAPABILITYThe physical changes are powerful, but the emotional changes are just as important. When someone realizes they can move their body in ways they couldn't before, their self-esteem skyrockets. That confidence carries over into school, work, social settings, and personal goals. Independence isn't just about what you can do physically, it's about believing in your own ability to problem-solve and adapt. Movement teaches both. WHY THIS MATTERS FOR THE DISABILITY COMMUNITYAdults with disabilities face barriers to accessing fitness opportunities. Too often, programs focus solely on therapy or medical needs, overlooking regular, intentional movement's role in building independence. That's why we exist—to bridge that gap and make sure every person has the opportunity to move, grow, and thrive.
At the end of the day, fitness is about living life on your own terms. For some, that's running a 5k. For others, it's making breakfast without assistance or exploring a new hobby. Whatever the goal, movement is the foundation. Independence is the reward. I'm honored to share that I've stepped into a new role as the Oregon State Director with the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). For those who don't know, the NSCA is the gold standard in the fitness industry. It brings together coaches, trainers, researchers, and educators to advance the profession of strength and conditioning. I don't take lightly the opportunity to help guide that mission here in Oregon. This role gives me the opportunity to:
 Over the past decade, through Specialty Athletic Training, I've seen firsthand how powerful strength training can be, especially for individuals who have been overlooked by the fitness industry. My Hope is to bring that same inclusive vision into the NSCA's work here in Oregon, connecting coaches and trainers from every corner of the state to share ideas, learn from each other, and raise the bar for the communities we serve.
I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity and can't wait to see what we build together. If you're in Oregon and part of the strength and conditioning world, let's connect; Whether its at a clinic, over coffee, or on the training floor. Here's to growing stronger, together. When I first started Specialty Athletic Training in 2012, I thought my biggest job as a trainer would be creating great programs, the perfect mix of exercises, progressions, and techniques to help my clients hit their goals. But over the years, I have learned something that has completely shaped how I approach training. The most important part of this job is not the program. It is the relationship. The truth is, people do not stick with training just because you tell them it is good for them. They stick with it because they feel safe, supported, and understood. That happens when you build trust, and trust comes from taking the time to truly know your clients. Connection first, training second.Before we talk about sets, reps, or form, I want to know who my clients are. What excites them? What challenges have they faced? What is a win for them, in or out of the gym? For our athletes in the disability community, this step is even more crucial. Some may have had negative or even traumatic experiences with movement in the past. My role is not just to train them, it is to earn their trust, create a safe space, and show them that this time, it is different. Consistency builds trustTrust is not built in a single conversation; it is built in the little moments, over and over again. Showing up on time. Remembering the details they shared with you last week. Celebrating not just their PRs, but their personal victories outside the gym. These consistent touchpoints add up to something powerful: the belief that you are in their corner no matter what.  Better relationships, better resultsWhen a client knows you genuinely care about them as a person, they are more likely to push through the tough days, stay committed, and celebrate their progress. Training becomes more than just exercise, it becomes a shared journey. And when we are in it together, the results are not just physical. Confidence grows. Independence expands. Quality of life improves. more than a jobFor me, training has never been just a business transaction. It is a chance to impact someone’s life in a real and lasting way. Relationship building is the heartbeat of that mission. Without it, the programs are just exercises on paper. With it, they become tools for change.
If you are a trainer, my advice is simple. Never underestimate the power of connection. Invest in your relationships, and you will not only see better results, you will change lives. When people think of fitness for kids, they often picture sports teams or running laps for PE class. But for many children, especially those with disabilities, fitness starts with something much simpler: learning how to move. At Specialty Athletic Training, we focus on the basics. Before a child can play tag or shoot a basketball, they need to be able to crawl, jump, skip, and run. These movements are more than just play; they're critical for a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Gross motor skills are the foundation of movement. They're what allow a child to balance, explore their environment, and eventually participate in play with others. These early movements build strength, coordination, and confidence; setting the stage for lifelong independence. But not every child picks up these skills on their own. Some need to be taught. All of them need opportunity.  why gross motor skills matterGross motor skills are large movements - like crawling, jumping, skipping and running - that form the foundation for nearly everything else a child will do physcially. These skills impact not only how they move, but also how they learn communicate and interact with the world around them. Let's break a few of them down: CrawlingCrawling builds core strength, stability, and coordination between the right and left sides of the body. It's the foundation for balance, posture, and future movement patterns. When a child skips crawling, they're missing more than mobility. They're missing an essential developmental experience. jumping: power + controlJumping teaches kids how to generate force and control their landing. It helps with joint development, spatial awareness, and confidence. It's one of those movements that makes a kid feel strong. And that matters! skipping: The most underrated skill in childhood developmentYou want to test a child's coordination, rhythm, and timing? Have them skip. Skipping requires bilateral coordination, timing, and balance. It's a skill that often gets overlooked, but it's a huge indicator of neuromuscular development. If a child struggles to skip, that might be a sign they need support in developing foundational movement patterns. And when they learn to skip? You can see the pride all over their face! running: freedom in motionRunning is the ultimate expression of movement freedom. Whether chasing a friend, running bases, or just doing laps for fun, it builds cardiovascular endurance and confidence. For kids with disabilities, learning to run safely and efficiently can be life-changing. movement has to be taughtThe truth? Not every child develops these skills naturally. Some need structure. Some need repetition. All of them need support.
So whether your child is just getting started or catching up, remember: movement is a skill. And like any skill, it grows with coaching, consistency, and care. As a parent, I understand the constant tug-of-war between wanting the best for our kids and navigating a food system that often feels stacked against us. When I heard about the recent bans on artificial food dyes and certain seed oils, I was encouraged. These are steps in the right direction—toward a cleaner, healthier food environment for our families. But here’s the hard truth I’ve learned through both parenting and over a decade of training individuals with disabilities: removing food dyes and seed oils won’t fix the obesity epidemic. Not for our kids. Not for us. THE FOOD QUALITY VS QUANITY TRAP Let’s be honest—most of us want to feed our kids better. We’re relieved when schools take soda out of the cafeteria or when brands start making “cleaner” snack options. But even without the bright blue dyes and inflammatory oils, kids (and adults) can still overeat. Obesity isn’t just about what’s in our food—it’s about how much of it we’re consuming. You can eat “all-natural” snacks and still end up in a calorie surplus. That’s the part most people don’t want to talk about. But it matters. WHAT THE BANS DO HELP WITH Don’t get me wrong—these changes are important:
But they don’t teach our kids how to listen to hunger cues. They don’t model what a balanced plate looks like. And they certainly don’t replace movement, connection, or healthy habits at home. WHAT OUR KIDS NEED MORE THAN EVER As parents, our job isn’t just to feed our children—it’s to help them build a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. That means:
These are the lessons that stick. These are the habits that prevent obesity—not just cleaner food labels. THE BOTTOM LINE I’m glad the food industry is being held to higher standards. But let’s not fall into the trap of thinking that cleaner food alone will solve everything. The root of the issue is deeper—and it starts at home. As parents, we have the opportunity to do more than just buy the “better” version of the snack. We can create environments where our kids feel empowered, informed, and supported in making choices that serve their long-term health. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Brezlyn Hagemeister doesn’t back down from challenges—she rises through them. A sophomore at Ridgeview High School, Brezlyn made headlines this season as one of the most dominant pitchers in the state. She played a key role in leading her team to a state championship and earned a reputation as one of the top arms in Oregon—regardless of classification. But her success isn’t just about talent. It’s about grit, resilience, and the fire that’s been building inside her for years. Brezlyn was diagnosed with diabetes at a young age and has faced doubters ever since. Some people saw her diagnosis as a limitation. She saw it as motivation. Every time someone underestimated her, she used it to fuel her growth—on and off the field. We had the privilege of working with Brezlyn at Specialty Athletic Training shortly after she received her diagnosis, and even back then, her determination was undeniable. She showed up ready to work and never made excuses—even while managing a chronic health condition. With the unwavering support of her family, her teammates, and her loyal companion “Scout,” Brezlyn has turned adversity into strength. She’s become a leader, a competitor, and an inspiration to other young athletes navigating similar challenges.
Her story is one of perseverance and purpose. And the best part? She’s only a sophomore. We couldn’t be prouder to have played a small role in Brezlyn’s journey. From her early training days with us to her latest championship run, she continues to prove what’s possible when passion meets hard work. Congratulations, Brezlyn—we’re all rooting for you. And we can’t wait to see what’s next. When people think of fitness, they often focus on the physical—getting stronger, building endurance, losing weight. But for our clients at Specialty Athletic Training, the benefits of fitness go way beyond the physical. One of the most powerful tools we use isn’t a piece of equipment or a fancy exercise technique—it’s routine. Routine builds trust, creates safety, and gives our clients a sense of control in a world that often feels unpredictable. Many individuals we serve thrive in structured environments. Whether they’re living with autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, or other disabilities, having a consistent, predictable schedule helps reduce anxiety and boosts their ability to engage. When they know what to expect—who they’ll be with, what they’ll be doing, how long it will last—it removes a major barrier to participation. But here’s the real magic: routine doesn’t just help our clients show up. It helps them grow.  When we repeat exercises week after week, we reinforce movement patterns, improve motor planning, and create opportunities to build confidence. Our clients begin to recognize that they can do hard things. They see their progress. Most importantly, they start to believe in themselves.
For some, just walking through the gym door was once a big win. Now? They’re setting goals. Pushing sleds. Trying new movements. Smiling more. Talking more. Advocating for themselves. That doesn’t happen by accident—it happens through the power of showing up, consistently, in a place where they feel safe and supported. Fitness for our community isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And progress lives in routine. So if you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional wondering where to start—start with consistency. Make it a habit. Make it predictable. Show up for them, and you’ll be amazed at how they show up for themselves. At Specialty Athletic Training, we’re not just building stronger bodies—we’re building stronger routines, stronger confidence, and stronger lives. as seen in Spectrum Life Magazine Summer 2025 issue Let’s be honest—nutrition labels can be overwhelming. One second you’re trying to buy a “healthy” snack, and the next you’re squinting at a long list of ingredients you can’t pronounce and wondering what counts as a serving. I’ve been there. And so have a lot of the families we work with. At Specialty Athletic Training, we’ve always focused on making fitness and wellness accessible for the disability community. While we’re known for what we do in the gym, what happens outside of the gym—like how we fuel our bodies—matters just as much. So, let’s take the stress out of nutrition labels and get back to the basics. You don’t need a degree in dietetics to start making informed food choices. You just need a few tools, a little guidance, and a whole lot of grace. Start with What You Know: Calories and Where They Come From Calories aren’t bad—they’re just energy. Your body uses them to move, think, grow, and heal. However, not all calories are created equal because where those calories come from makes a big difference in how you feel. There are three primary sources of calories, called macronutrients: • Protein (4 calories per gram) • Carbohydrates (4 calories per gram) • Fat (9 calories per gram) We encourage our clients to prioritize protein, especially if they’re working on building strength or stabilizing energy levels throughout the day. Protein helps with recovery, regulates hunger, and supports long-term health. Example: A snack with 10g of protein and 4g of fiber will keep you full and focused. A snack with 25g of added sugar and no protein? That’s a short-lived energy boost followed by a crash. Calories matter, but quality matters more. Break Down the Label Without Breaking Your Brain Here’s how we simplify it with our clients: 1. Serving Size Everything else on the label is based on this. If the label says one serving is ½ cup and you eat a full cup, double all the numbers. 2. Total Calories Use this to understand how much energy you’re getting. But don’t stop there—check where the calories are coming from. 3. Nutrients to Limit Try to keep an eye on: • Saturated fat • Trans fat • Added sugars • Sodium You don’t need to cut these out completely, but too much over time can impact energy, mood, and long-term health. 4. Nutrients to Prioritize Focus on getting more of: • Protein • Fiber • Calcium • Iron • Potassium • Vitamin D These help with muscle recovery, digestion, bone strength, and overall energy. And most people—especially kids and young adults—aren’t getting enough. Eat in Color, Add in Greens, and Keep It Simple I always say, nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be intentional. Eat the Rainbow Different colors mean different nutrients. Try to get at least two or three colors on your plate at each meal. Think strawberries, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and bell peppers. This is a super-easy habit for families to build together, and even picky eaters usually find a few favorites. Include Greens Leafy greens are packed with iron, calcium, fiber, and vitamins. We’re big fans of adding a handful of spinach to scrambled eggs or tossing kale into a smoothie. You don’t need to go full-on salad mode to get the benefits. Build a Balanced Plate Here’s a simple meal formula we teach clients: • Protein (chicken, tofu, yogurt, beans) • Fiber (veggies, fruits, whole grains) • Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts) • Color (eat the rainbow!)If you’re checking most of those boxes, you’re on the right track.  What About the % Daily Value?
Those percentages on the side of the label? They’re based on a general 2,000-calorie diet. They help give you a rough idea of whether something is low (5% or less) or high (20% or more) in a particular nutrient. Here’s how we use it: • Look for high %DV in fiber, protein, calcium, and vitamins. • Watch out for high %DV in sodium or saturated fat. • Use it to compare similar products when you’re not sure which one is the better option.But don’t get stuck in the weeds. If your protein bar has 18% DV of fiber instead of 20%, it’s still a win. Labels Aren’t the Whole Story One of the biggest takeaways we share with families: Don’t let front-of-package marketing decide for you. Labels like “low fat,” “sugar-free,” or “made with whole grains” don’t tell the full story. Flip the package over. Check the ingredient list. A shorter list with recognizable ingredients is usually a better sign. Look out for added sugars hiding under names like corn syrup, dextrose, or fruit juice concentrate. The amount of “added sugars” will also be listed under sugars on the label. Nutrition = Independence At Specialty Athletic Training, we believe that learning how to read labels and make healthy food choices is more than a wellness skill—it’s a life skill. Helping individuals understand how food impacts their body—how it makes them feel strong, focused, and confident—is one of the most powerful things we can do. Final Thoughts You don’t need to overhaul your pantry or follow a perfect meal plan. Just start with small, consistent steps: • Add a source of protein to your breakfast • Choose snacks with both protein and fiber • Aim for more color at every meal • Read the back of one food label this week These little actions build confidence. And confidence carries over into every other part of life—whether it’s lifting a heavier weight, trying a new activity, or simply showing up with your head held high. Nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle. But when it clicks, everything else starts to feel a little more in your control. At Specialty Athletic Training, we believe that movement is a tool for growth—especially in childhood. As kids grow, they develop physically, emotionally, and socially. Regular exercise supports all three, and when it’s done in a positive, inclusive environment, it can be a life-changing experience. A Growing Concern: Obesity in America Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing health concerns in the United States. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 children and adolescents in the U.S. is affected by obesity. That number often grows with age--more than 70% of American adults are now considered overweight or obese. Obesity is linked to a wide range of health risks, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, joint issues, and mental health challenges. But more importantly, it’s often rooted in habits formed early in life—habits related to movement, food, and overall lifestyle. Movement as Prevention—and Empowerment Exercise is a key part of maintaining a healthy weight, but its benefits go far beyond that. For children, physical activity can:
 Diet and Exercise Go Hand in Hand
While fitness plays a crucial role, diet is equally important. Establishing healthy eating patterns early—like balanced meals, portion control, and mindful eating—can support energy levels, mood, and long-term wellness. When paired with regular exercise, good nutrition creates a foundation that helps children thrive now and in the future. That’s why we often collaborate with families to encourage healthy routines at home that include both movement and nutrition—not through restrictions, but through empowerment. Building Habits That Last a LifetimeEncouraging a love for movement early in life sets the foundation for long-term health and wellness. More importantly, it helps children develop a positive relationship with their bodies and what they’re capable of. At Specialty Athletic Training, we’re here to help children grow stronger—not just physically, but in confidence, independence, and self-belief. |
About the AuthorRyan Lockard, CSCS*D, CSPS*D is the Founder and CEO of Specialty Athletic Training. He is accredited by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and a Certified Special Populations Specialist. Lockard is currently the NSCA Oregon State Director and has served on numerous non-profit boards serving the disability community, including the Autism Society of America.
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