ORANGE, Conn. — A special fitness center in Orange helps people with special needs stay active, build strength, and form connections.
At the Autism Health & Fitness Center, weekly dance classes bring energy and smiles to participants like 19-year-old Emily Curran, who said, “I like that I can dance and move around.”
The center was founded in 2014 by Dedra Leapley and her husband, inspired by their experience raising a child with special needs. They noticed that exercise brought positive changes in their child’s life.
“It was amazing to see the huge transformation just from getting exercise,” Leapley said, calling the center a “labor of love.”
Located in a welcoming warehouse space with soft floors and calming colors, the center offers both small adaptive group classes and one-on-one training sessions.
“The heart of us is the staff and their ability to connect with our members, creating mentorship, bonds, and social connections,” Leapley explained.
Trainer Karyn Gallagher adds, “I give members choices for exercises. If they’re unsure, I might ask, ‘Would you rather do a step-up or a squat?’”
The center focuses on personalized care and support to help participants enjoy fitness and social interaction in a safe and encouraging environment.
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