New online fitness program targets US veterans with MS, mobility issues
Free Paralyzed Veterans of America classes can be accessed from home
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- Paralyzed Veterans of America is offering a free online fitness program for U.S. veterans with mobility issues.
- It targets veterans with multiple sclerosis, ALS, and spinal cord injuries.
- Classes, also open to caregivers, offer adaptive exercises, meditation, and breathwork for physical and mental health.
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) — a congressionally chartered veterans organization open to all military service members with multiple sclerosis (MS) — has launched a new, free, online fitness and wellness program that offers adaptive, expert-led classes for individuals with mobility challenges.
The initiative is designed specifically for veterans living with diseases such as MS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal cord injuries, as well as their caregivers. It’s inclusive of all fitness levels and abilities, and can be accessed from home.
In announcing the program in a press release, the organization said interested would-be participants are invited to view the full class schedule and register through the PVA’s website.
“By removing accessibility barriers to fitness and wellness and meeting veterans where they are in their fitness and wellness journey, we are not only helping to improve mental and physical fitness, but we are also cultivating a community of mutual support and connection,” said Fabio Villarroel, PVA’s senior director of sports and recreation.
PVA notes that in-person classes are also available in two U.S. states.
Veteran program powered by Warrior Strong
The program is powered by Warrior Strong, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the physical and mental well-being of veterans and their families through free fitness and wellness programs. The organization also offers adaptive programs for those with disabilities.
“Warrior Strong’s expertise in adaptive fitness and their deep understanding of the veteran community make them the ideal organization to help bring this exciting new program to life,” Villarroel said.
At Warrior Strong, we are dedicated to helping veterans reconnect with their physical, mental, and emotional strength. … Working with PVA allows us to expand that mission even further, by ensuring that every veteran, no matter their mobility level, has access to the tools and community they need to thrive.
Through the partnership, participants can access up to nine weekly sessions designed to improve strength, endurance, and hand-eye coordination. Meditation and breathwork classes are also offered to help reduce stress and support mental health.
By combining exercise with mindfulness-based wellness practices, the new program aims to improve resilience and overall quality of life for veterans with disabilities across the country.
In addition to the online offerings, veterans may have the option to attend classes at Warrior Strong facilities in Scranton, Pennsylvania, or Morris County, New Jersey.
“At Warrior Strong, we are dedicated to helping veterans reconnect with their physical, mental, and emotional strength,” said Tom Vice, CEO and founder of Warrior Strong. “Working with PVA allows us to expand that mission even further, by ensuring that every veteran, no matter their mobility level, has access to the tools and community they need to thrive.”
