For GRIT 920, adaptive fitness isn’t an afterthought—it’s the core of everything it does. As a nonprofit gym dedicated to individuals with disabilities, GRIT 920 creates a space where athletes of all abilities can thrive. From specialized adaptive equipment to trainers with adaptive certifications, every aspect of GRIT 920 is designed to make health and wellness truly inclusive.
“This gym is theirs when they’re in here,” said Executive Director Hollie Linder. “We find a way to connect with each individual, find what motivates them and bring out the best in them.”
Based in Green Bay, GRIT 920’s mission aligns seamlessly with Special Olympics Wisconsin’s SOfit initiative. SOfit is a unified approach to improving health and wellness for people with and without intellectual disabilities and offers participants a personalized look at overall wellness. SOfit promotes overall well-being through physical activity, nutrition and hydration. Performance Stations are offered throughout the year at statewide Special Olympics Wisconsin competitions and are designed to educate athletes, coaches and caregivers on the connection between fitness and athletic performance. These opportunities provide a hands-on opportunity for athletes to learn the fundamentals in those health topics from volunteers and health experts.
GRIT 920 helps Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes apply what they learn at the Performance Stations into practice and provides them with a welcoming environment to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and endurance—key components for both athletic competition and daily life. Many participants do not have access to fitness opportunities in their home environments, making GRIT 920 an essential resource for long-term, comprehensive health.
“Programs like SOfit and gyms like GRIT 920 are changing the game when it comes to health equity for people with disabilities,” said Jeston Glish, Health Program Manager for Special Olympics Wisconsin. “We know that access to fitness and wellness opportunities is often limited for this population, so having dedicated spaces and experts who truly understand their needs makes all the difference.”
Beyond physical fitness, SOfit and GRIT 920 foster self-confidence and independence. The strength and stamina habits gained in the gym translate into greater success in other areas of life.
Josh, a Special Olympics Wisconsin athlete, has been working out at GRIT 920 and has noticed a change.
“I can’t even tell you how good I feel after almost three and a half months of working out,” Josh said. “It just changed my life completely. I’ve been working on getting my body in shape and strengthening my mind. I get to work out with all these friends that I’ve known for so long, and it’s been amazing. I’m grateful for that, and it’s made my life way easier.”
Through its partnership with GRIT 920, Special Olympics Wisconsin and its dedication to SOfit continues to build not just muscle, but also a stronger, healthier and more connected community for individuals of all abilities.