The Full Spectrum of Fitness: Programs for Every Body in NorCal

Written By Sarah Yost

By the time February rolls around, the initial excitement of January’s "New Year’s Resolutions" has often begun to settle into a more realistic daily routine. For the NorCal SCI community, this is the perfect time to move past the temporary hype and focus on building sustainable habits that support long-term health, independence, and systemic wellness.

Because SCI affects everyone differently, there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach. Whether you roll, walk, or utilize assisted movement, the goal is the same: finding a sustainable way to keep the body healthy and supported for the year ahead.

Opportunities for the Newly Injured

If you or a loved one are within the first two years of injury, the "settling in" period can be the most challenging. NorCal SCI offers two cornerstone programs designed specifically to provide the intensive support needed during this window:

  • The Franklin Project (TFP): Named in honor of our late co-founder, this is our most impactful grant program. It provides motivated individuals with the opportunity for intensive outpatient rehabilitation. You can choose between a 5-week intensive in Utah at Neuroworx (including lodging and travel support) or a 10-week local program at SCI-FIT Dublin or Sacramento.

  • The Newly Injured Grant: This 4-month program is designed for those who have received minimal therapy after hospital discharge. It includes 3-4 months of paid gym sessions, peer mentoring, and access to a specialized video library covering everything from nutrition to FES usage.

Featured Program: Staying Driven Wheelchair Fitness

As we settle into the rhythm of 2026, we continue to highlight our partnership with Staying Driven. Founder Steph Roach welcomes anyone with a physical disability to her live, virtual sessions. Whether you are working on core engagement with a higher-level injury or building balance as an ambulatory survivor, these sessions are radically adaptable. Through our partnership, classes are available at no cost to our community. Sign up now!

Wellness Across the Spectrum

A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse: Planet Fitness

For many, the most accessible gym is the one right around the corner. Planet Fitness has made significant strides in inclusive design through their partnership with the Coalition for Inclusive Fitness. Most locations now feature specialized equipment designed for wheelchair users, including:

  • Dual Cable Strength Machines: These allow for a wide variety of upper-body exercises while remaining in your chair.

  • Removal Seats: Many of their recumbent steppers and upper-body ergometers (hand bikes) have seats that slide out or swivel away, allowing a wheelchair to roll directly into the workout position.

  • Accessible Cardio: Look for machines with the "Inclusive Fitness" symbol, which often feature tactile buttons and audible instructions.

It’s a fantastic, low-cost option for staying consistent with your strength and cardio goals without traveling to a specialized facility.

On-Demand Options: YouTube

If you prefer the flexibility of a home routine, these channels offer excellent content:

  • NorCal SCI Fitness Playlist: Movement for every level of function, with clear insights into how each session supports your circulation, posture, and strength.

  • Adapt to Perform: SCI-specific routines for all levels of hand function and mobility.

  • NCHPAD: Expert tutorials on everything from seated yoga to passive stretching.

Final Thoughts

The "best" fitness program isn’t the one you start in January—it’s the one you’re still doing in February. Whether you are a grant recipient starting intensive rehab or you’re joining your first virtual class with Staying Driven, the most important step is simply taking care of the body you’re in.

Stay Strong and Keep Moving Forward!💪👨🏽‍🦼‍➡️👩‍🦽‍➡️

Sarah Yost
Previous

A New Perspective in Berkeley: Upright Mobility Recap
Next

Free 6-Week Virtual Mental Health Program Begins in March