Individualized fitness programs for children on the spectrum

Our Mission

Our mission is to redefine fitness and make it accessible to all individuals, regardless of their behavioral challenges. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead an active and healthy lifestyle, and our programs provide a safe and inclusive environment where individuals can thrive.  Whether you are a parent seeking a fitness program for your child, a caregiver looking for inclusive fitness options, or a professional in the field of behavioral health, Bears Behavioral Fitness is here to support you. Join us on this empowering journey towards a healthier and happier life.

Who we are

Coach Barry has been working with kids on the spectrum (special needs) for nearly a decade. As a behavior therapist, he specifically works to provide direct, one-on-one, behavioral interventions to teach communication, social, and daily living skills and reduce problematic behaviors in the home, community, and school settings. Majority of this work is done in clinical settings, schools, and homes.   After years of working specifically with behaviors and within the clinical and community setting, Coach Barry wanted something more. Since he lives a healthy lifestyle and works out regularly, he began to take his in home kids outside for walks in nature preserves and parks (hiking) . After these walks, he noticed how his clients enjoyed the sensory aspect of nature being around them and the behaviors that they were working on would decrease in frequency, intensity, and duration. Once Coach Barry began researching and looking for fitness related activities for kids on the spectrum, he quickly realized that there aren't many programs out there, and especially none for kids with "problematic behaviors".   Coach Barry studied and obtained certification as a youth fitness specialist and quickly began working with children on the spectrum and shaping workout routines of those with various behaviors in the fitness environment. Bears Behavioral Fitness started from here.   "Studies (in the Biomedical Journal) have shown improved attention and concentration in the time following periods of exercise in children both with and without ADHD". (http://bit.ly/3Jv4gnY)

Why Behavioral Fitness

At Bears Behavioral Fitness, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community that celebrates individual differences and encourages growth and self-confidence. We are committed to providing a nurturing environment where individuals can improve physical fitness, boost self-esteem, enhance social skills, and experience the joy of achievement. Our dedicated team of qualified fitness professionals and behavior specialists are passionate about creating personalized fitness programs that address the specific needs and goals of each individual. Through a holistic approach, we focus not only on physical fitness but also on promoting sensory integration, motor skills development, and overall well-being. Our Key Offerings Include: Specialized fitness programs tailored to individuals with behavioral challenges Certified trainers experienced in working with diverse abilities Inclusive group fitness classes and one-on-one sessions Sensory-friendly environment and equipment Personalized goal setting and progress tracking Integration of evidence-based behavioral strategies into fitness sessions Collaborative approach with families, caregivers, and therapists

Where to find us

We are always happy to work with you. Currently we are serving clients in their homes in the surrounding Hillsborough County.
Tampa, Florida Jacksonville, Florida
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Saturday and Sunday by appointment only