Best of All: Avery’s GiGiFIT Journey

At GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati, we celebrate the growth and achievements of each participant, no matter how big or small. Today, we are thrilled to highlight Avery and her journey through GiGiFIT Teen! When Avery first walked through our doors, she was stepping into the unknown. It was her very first GiGiFIT session and her very first visit to the Playhouse. For anyone, walking into a new space can feel intimidating—and immediately being asked to do push-ups? That’s a tall order! But Avery’s story is a testament to the importance of taking time to build trust, rapport, and a sense of comfort.

Progress Built on Trust

On the first and final day of each session, participants complete a series of 8 baseline movements that are measured to track their progress throughout the session. These include things like grip strength, forward jumps, and a 2-minute step test. This allows us to see the growth a participant makes and areas that need more focus.

In Avery’s first GiGiFIT session, we focused on just two baseline movements. By her second session, she was completing six. And now, in her third session, we successfully tracked all eight baseline movements, focusing not just on completing the movements but ensuring they are done with correct form. These improvements didn’t happen overnight. While Avery has been physically capable of these movements since her first day, but we knew that building a foundation of trust and understanding was key to her success.

Our team took the time to learn about Avery—her likes, dislikes, and what motivates her. We also gave Avery the time she needed to get used to the environment, the volunteers, and the structure of the class. Slowly but surely, she became more engaged, more willing to try, and more connected to the community around her.

A Routine That Motivates

Avery has now developed a routine that is uniquely hers and something we all love. Each week, she walks in, hangs up her jacket, brings her backpack into the GiGiFIT gym, and lines up her dolls beside her. She even picks one doll to join her in the workout! Encouraging Avery to use what motivates her—whether it’s her dolls, her love of fun, or the support of her peers—has made all the difference.

She’s no longer just showing up; she’s showing up ready to work hard. She tackles the tough exercises and works alongside her friends to complete each session. Avery’s consistency and determination have inspired all of us.

The Importance of Motivation

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we set the bar high and always assume ability. But we also recognize the importance of asking ourselves key questions:

• What motivates a person to reach that bar?
• Why is motivation important?
• How can we help build it?

For participants with Down syndrome, common challenges like hypotonia (low muscle tone) and ligament laxity (excessive joint flexibility) make physical activity essential, yet challenging. Motivation is the bridge that turns these challenges into achievements. For some, motivation is intrinsic—they come ready to work out and get stronger. For others, it’s built over time through consistency, encouragement, and the social aspects of GiGiFIT.

Sometimes it’s the thrill of hitting a new milestone, like holding a plank for just a few seconds longer. Other times, it’s the cheering from peers and volunteers. Just as every person is unique, so too are their motivators. Understanding this allows us to tailor our approach to each participant, ensuring that they feel supported and empowered every step of the way.

Why GiGiFIT Matters

GiGiFIT Teen introduces key movements—from foundational exercises to hip strengthening and balance work—designed to help individuals with Down syndrome move with purpose and confidence throughout their lives. By addressing challenges like hypotonia and decreased balance, GiGiFIT builds strength, endurance, power, and movement control. More importantly, it empowers participants to be independent and confident in their abilities while improving overall health and wellness.

Celebrating Avery’s “Best of All”

Avery’s journey is a perfect example of why we do what we do. She has shown us the value of patience, persistence, and the power of connection. She reminds us that success is about more than just physical capability; it’s about creating an environment where every participant feels safe, motivated, and supported.

Avery, we are so proud of you. Your dedication and progress inspire us every day. Keep shining and showing us your “Best of All”—because you are unstoppable!