Special Olympics Indiana Launches Train 4 Life Pilot Program in 5 Cities

Wellness program focuses on strength building and wholistic health habits for individuals with intellectual disabilities

Special Olympics Indiana recently launched the pilot program for its Train 4 Life initiative, a free fitness program designed for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) that includes partnerships with facilities in five communities.

Train 4 Life is a wellness project originally developed by Special Olympics Tennessee. It focuses on fitness, nutrition and mental health for Special Olympics athletes ages 13 and older. The 12-week program includes pre- and post-program biometric and fitness testing, group workouts, weekly nutrition and healthy lifestyle education. By developing these healthy choices within individuals, the program allows athletes to see measured outcomes and continue good habits throughout their lifetimes.

Studies have shown that nearly three-quarters of adults with ID and half of youth with ID are overweight or obese. People with ID are four times more likely to acquire Type 2 diabetes and a quarter of them have low bone density.

The Tennessee program has shown results that include lowered blood pressure, lowered body mass index and increased overall strength.

“This program is an incredible opportunity for our athletes to get health and fitness training outside of their chosen sports seasons,” Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Jeff Mohler said. “By improving their physical fitness and well-being, we are helping to set them up for longer, more fit lives.”

The program’s pilot sites include:

• Reclaim, Greensburg
• Unbreakable Athletics Academy, Plainfield
• Mad Apple CrossFit, Fort Wayne
• CrossFit HSE, Noblesville
• CrossFit South Bend, South Bend

Participants will work out alongside individuals without intellectual disabilties in order to build a sense of mentorship, friendship and community. The program’s model is designed to meet individuals where they are and set achievable goals as they progress and take on increasing physical challenges.

Special Olympics Indiana will monitor and report results from its pilot program following a 12-week initial period. The goal is to expand the program to 12 communities in 2025, eventually bringing it to all 92 Indiana counties.

“Through the Train 4 Life we will help athletes improve their performance on the field while also making a measurable impact on their health,” Special Olympics Indiana Manager of Health and Fitness Kyle Moran said. “By partnering with gyms that hold the same values as Special Olympics Indiana, we are able to build up both our athletes and our communities – one rep at a time.”