OUR TRAINERS
FOUNDER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/TRAINER
MARK RALKO
Education and Experience
EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY / Special Education and Adaptive Fitness
My “Why”
“My background is in Special Education with an emphasis on fitness. This place, Inclusively Fit, is the realization of my vision and passion. I wanted to pursue my life-long love of fitness in a way that aligned with my deep desire to serve the special needs community. Inclusively Fit lets me do just that. And, I have to say, the difference we are making in the lives of our clients has exceeded all of my expectations.”
TRAINER
BREANNA
Education and Experience
OAKLAND UNIVERSITY / Strength and Agility Coach
My “Why”
Fitness has always been a passion of mine and an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. I love coaching and I love competing. Inclusively Fit is the perfect place for me as it allows me to continue my work as a fitness professional while also accommodating my strong desire to be of service to those with special needs. At Inclusively Fit, I’m not only a trainer to my clients, but a mentor and life-coach as well. I find this unique environment that combines fitness and service to be incredibly rewarding.
TRAINER
BRYAN
Education and Experience
OAKLAND UNIVERSITY / Exercise Science
My “Why”
“Fitness is something that provides people so many health benefits. And, not just physical benefits, but emotional and mental health benefits as well. I came to Inclusively Fit as I wanted to make a difference in an area that I feel is mostly ignored by the fitness industry, the special needs community.”
TRAINER
JOELY
Education and Experience
Grand Valley State University / Clinical Exercise Science, Minor in Psychology
Physical Therapy Technician
Physical Therapy Technician
My “Why”
After completing my Bachelor’s degree I sought a role that would enable me to apply my experience in physical therapy and exercise science while making a positive impact in our community. Inclusively Fit has proven to be an exceptional environment for personal and professional development. I find immense joy in collaborating with our clients and guiding them on their journey toward achieving their fitness and wellness goals. Additionally, engaging with the special needs and disabled communities has been a particularly rewarding aspect of my role, and I have learned so much from my co-workers, clients, and their families. Our mission to provide a safe and inclusive space in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle shines through our facility.
TRAINER
KAREN
Education and Experience
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY / Recreation & Park Administration
My “Why”
“I have managed a health club and have worked for over twenty years with individuals of all ages and fitness levels, designing and implementing exercise programs for clients. I recently joined Inclusively Fit after seeing the amazing work Mark was doing with the special needs community. He understands the overwhelming need for this segment of our society.”
TRAINER
KATHLEEN
Education and Experience
Michigan State University / Business
NASM – Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Weight Loss Specialist
NASM – Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Weight Loss Specialist
My “Why”
“Fitness has always played a big role and passion in my life. Working at Inclusively Fit brings me immense joy, as we all strive to contribute to the physical and mental well-being of those with special needs. I look forward to going to work every day to create an environment where everyone, regardless of their ability, can experience the numerous benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.“
TRAINER
KLAUDIA
Education and Experience
ROCHESTER UNIVERSITY / Psychology
CAPELLA UNIVERSITY / Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis
CAPELLA UNIVERSITY / Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis
My “Why”
“I have worked as a Behavioral Technician for the last seven years working with autistic children. I recently graduated with a Masters in Science of Psychology specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis. My goal and passion is to not only work with my clients on physical goals but also to incorporate my professional training to focus on the ENTIRE person, as the Inclusively Fit mission outlines. Inclusively Fit allows me to put my passion into practice.”
TRAINER
SYDNEY
Education and Experience
OAKLAND UNIVERSITY / Kinesiology
My “Why”
“Upon graduating from college, I wanted to practice my skills in hopes in changing people’s views on health. When discovering Inclusively Fit and seeing the amazing work that it does for the special needs population, I knew this place where I could actually make that happen. Exercise and health have always been an important part of my life and being able to make an influential impact with these families, will be very gratifying. They truly need the life-changing assistance I intend to share.”
TRAINER
TERRY
Education and Experience
Wayne State University Special Education: Cognitive Impairment & Autism. Minor: Elementary Education & Psychology
Special education teacher at Rochester Public Schools. Certified autism exercise specialist
Special education teacher at Rochester Public Schools. Certified autism exercise specialist
My “Why”
At a young age, I was introduced to peers with disabilities such as Autism and Down Syndrome. Fascinated by learning about these conditions, I developed empathy towards individuals facing these challenges. I wanted to make a difference, so I started working with them right out of high school. This experience ignited my passion for a career in special education and brought me to where I am today. I’ve always been passionate about helping individuals with disabilities and equally enthusiastic about health and fitness. Working at Inclusively Fit is an ideal blend of my two passions, and it has been an immensely rewarding experience! Witnessing my clients grow stronger, both physically and mentally, is genuinely fulfilling, and I value being a part of their fitness journeys!
The physical trainer Mark, is phenomenal with his clients. This gym is perfect for multiple ability needs.
I love the community support I experience at OTF. I also feel the comradely of others yet I feel like I have a personal trainer. The coaches are the best, they really seem to care about all of the members.
Love the food. Don’t like the automatic 3% tagged on to your bill when paying with a credit card though.
Best gym I have ever been to. Would definitely recommend this place if you’re a serious fitness person or if your just getting started. Great staff as well!
Love this place!! They do a great job of working with my son on his strength and muscle tone, as well as with his adhd and chatty personality.
Introducing Inclusively Fit, a place and approach to fitness and exercise as unique as the individuals it was created to serve. An organization where everyone understands a person’s physical well-being is strongly connected to their emotional well-being. And that physical accomplishment doesn’t just build stronger muscles, but a stronger sense of self.
If you’re a family member, teacher or friend or someone with special needs, and struggled to find fitness programs or facilities that meet the specific needs of your child, you’re not alone. Inclusively Fit was founded upon a very simple realization … many children, as well as adults with special needs, can greatly benefit from a personal exercise and fitness program.
We’ve asked ourselves, “What if?” Our answer is Inclusively Fit. A place that believes fitness is a journey best traveled with friends.
INCLUSIVELY FIT GYM
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