The McClowry family, consisting of Colin, Ethan, Rachel, and Troy, proudly owns Special Strong Akron. They discovered Special Strong and Daniel's inspiring work online and saw a natural fit for this initiative within their family business, LLA Therapy. LLA Therapy, a pediatric private practice in Ohio, offers a range of therapy services including speech, occupational, physical, behavioral, music, and educational interventions. With over 25 years in operation, LLA Therapy currently operates four outpatient locations, with a fifth set to open this fall or winter, and provides therapists to various school systems.
The McClowrys saw Special Strong as an extension of their commitment to providing exceptional services to individuals and families with special needs. Colin serves as a registered behavior technician (RBT) at LLA Therapy and is also the primary trainer for Special Strong. Ethan, who recently graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Health Information Management Systems, works in the LLA billing department and brings prior experience as an RBT. Rachel, a retired intervention specialist, manages the coordination of services for LLA's behavioral program. Troy, the President and Owner of LLA, is a speech-language pathologist who leads the organization. Together, the McClowry family is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those they serve through both LLA Therapy and Special Strong.
By the age of 21, Daniel Stein had been diagnosed with a learning disability, mood disorder and autoimmune disease. After successfully using exercise to overcome his unique challenges, he felt called upon to help others with disabilities obtain healthier, happier, and higher functioning lives. Daniel obtained certifications through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT), and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
In 2016, Daniel and his wife, Trinity, launched Special Strong, one of the only fitness centers in the country for individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Today, Special Strong continues to specialize in adaptive and inclusive fitness training and is making a difference in the lives of children, adolescents and adults all over the world.
To unlock the strength and confidence within the mind, body, and spirit of every individual impacted by mental, physical, and cognitive challenges in order to live a more independent and abundant life.
To empower over 1 million athletes and 100,000 coaches to live an abundant life through adaptive fitness.
At Special Strong, we are governed by Christian values, using the acronym "STRONG." Through our values, we have created a life-giving culture where solutions can be created, people can prosper, and God can be glorified.