VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Emily Throckmorton started Kaizen Adaptive Training in 2020 in Virginia Beach.
"I had the privilege of working out with a handful of wounded warriors," Throckmorton said. "They had prosthetics and they were doing deadlifts and box jumps, and it was that 'no excuse' mentality that I was drawn toward."
She saw a need these people had once they moved beyond their initial physical and occupational therapy. After those healthcare rehab programs ended, there wasn't much out there for people with disabilities.
"I wanted to bridge that gap between healthcare and fitness," she explained.
Most typical gyms and workout facilities are not designed for people with spinal cord injuries, those who have suffered strokes, individuals with amputations, or long-term debilitating illnesses.
Here at Kaizen, they have access to workouts and coaching, and they are really pushed.
Former pro baseball player Brock Peterson compares his workouts today with what he used to do before he suffered a spinal injury.
"This is probably harder. I don't have as many muscles that work. Just doing the simplest thing is pretty challenging," he said. "Before, I worked pretty hard but it kind of came easy at the same time. So this is definitely a lot more challenging."
"We're giving these athletes an opportunity to regain their independence, their strength, their mobility," Throckmorton said.
They are also giving them a support network and the chance to bond with others.
"It's a family, it's a community," said Michael Feltz, who is dealing with advancing ALS. "You make connections with people."
"Anyone in the adaptive community that has been told they can't do something, we are here to show them: 'Yes they can!'" Throckmorton exclaimed.
This support of wounded warriors and adaptive athletes is something 13News Now is proud to get behind.
As part of Military Support Spotlight Week, 13News Now Meteorologist Craig Moeller surprised Throckmorton and her staff with a $1,000 donation.
We also partnered with First Team Auto who provided an additional donation!
"With these generous donations, we are able to keep the classes free for these athletes and get them the equipment they need," Throckmorton said. "So thank you so much!"