Participant Best of All: Spencer is Working on a Healthy Lifestyle

Leading a healthy lifestyle is crucial for individuals with Down syndrome, and GiGiFIT plays a significant role in this. Here’s how:

Importance of Leading a Healthy Lifestyle for Individuals with Down Syndrome

• Physical Health: Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, increases muscle strength, and enhances flexibility. These are vital for individuals with Down syndrome who may have lower muscle tone and higher risks of obesity and heart issues.
• Balance and Coordination: Improved balance and coordination help prevent falls, which is crucial for maintaining independence and safety in daily life.
• Mental and Emotional Well-being: Achieving fitness goals boosts self-confidence and fosters a positive self-image. Spencer’s experience at GiGiFIT shows how motivation and enthusiasm for fitness can lead to supreme concentration and willingness to try new techniques, contributing to overall well-being.
• Social Skills: Participating in group activities promotes social skills and builds friendships, enhancing social integration and community involvement.
• Daily Functionality: Physical strength and endurance gained through programs like GiGiFIT translate to better performance in everyday tasks, enhancing independence.

Spencer’s Story

Spencer has been showcasing his best during the Spring GiGiFIT adult sessions, demonstrating excellent hand-eye coordination while working closely with Program Assistant, Rylee Mazur. His motivation and enthusiasm for his newfound skill are evident in his supreme concentration during fitness tasks and his willingness to try new techniques like high toss, low toss, and rolling toss. His continual improvement is inspiring – next stop, Milwaukee Brewers training camp!

GiGiFIT Adult Program

• Key Movements: Introduces foundational exercises, hip strengthening exercises, and vestibular/balance exercises.
• Physical Therapy Goals: Strength, endurance, joint stability, balance, coordination, sequencing, independent practice, and a lifetime of participation.
• Fitness Goals: Improves strength, endurance, power, and stamina.
• Balance and Coordination: Enhances joint stability, posture, and movement control.

GiGiFIT provides individuals with Down syndrome a roadmap for purposeful, specific, and successful movement throughout their lifetime.

Learn more about all of the GiGiFIT programs for all age groups here.