Local Trainer Works Out With Special–Needs Clients
By Nathan Hall
Staff Writer
Monday, November 20, 2000
North Wales – Sean Hanley is a certified personal trainer in a specialized field. An employee of the Indian Creek Foundation with 13 years of experience working with powerlifters for the Special Olympics, Hanley founded Developmental Fitness Co. in March as a way of helping those with developmental disabilities after considering the idea for two years.
“I do it mainly because this is what I do best, and this is what I enjoy the most, “ Hanley said. Hanley, of North Wales, works with various clients throughout the Greater Philadelphia area, sometimes collaborating with such facilities as the North Penn YMCA, other times going to client’s homes. He consults with clients and develops individual plans to help them reach their physical – fitness goals.Though the cost varies for clients, Hanley said the average price is around $40.00 an hour less than the average fee for trainers, which he said comes out to $75.00 an hour.
“This service is long overdue, “ Hanley said. “ This is my way of providing low – cost personal training to a population that really needs it.”
Hanley said his own interest in helping the disabled came in ninth grade, when a person with Down Syndrome sat down at his lunch table. The two became friends and Hanley later got involved helping in the Special Olympics.
As for his business, Hanley said he hopes to add another trainer to the staff soon.
“My ultimate goal is a fitness center/gym for those with disabilities “ he said.
Bob Jones, 22, of Whitpain, is one of Hanley’s clients. Bob’s mother, Michelle, said Bob has been working with Hanley for a few months, and that her son is healthier and more active than before. “ I see the difference in my son,” Jones said.
Jones said Hanley was able to quickly establish a comfort level and trust with Bob. Bob’s exercise routines include 2 ½ mile walks through the neighborhood.
Although her son cannot talk, Jone’s said Hanley remains aware of his needs.
“His heart is definitely in the right place,” Jone’s said of Hanley. “ He truly loves the people he works for.”
(Names have been changed in this article to protect privacy of clients)