PowerEx™
A program to transition to independent activity.
What is PowerEx?
What sets the PowerEx program apart?
Our team utilizes a multifaceted approach, combining one-on-one supervised sessions with independent exercise sessions, to guide you in setting and reaching your health and fitness goals. Sheltering Arms’ exercise physiologists specialize in developing individualized exercise programs to help individuals with a wide range of medical conditions improve their overall fitness. Exercise physiologists implement motivational coaching techniques to overcome barriers to exercise, provide individualized exercise programs, and educate clients on proper exercise form, technique, equipment, and progression.
Additionally, we offer financial assistance to those who qualify.
Is PowerEx right for you?
PowerEx participants represent a wide range of diagnoses and ability levels. Anyone who is motivated to exercise independently is a good candidate for the PowerEx program.
What is included in the PowerEx program?
The PowerEx program is 12 weeks in duration and includes an initial medical history and fitness assessment, in-depth goal setting, an individualized exercise program, 12 one-on-one sessions with your exercise physiologist, a 12-week membership to the Sheltering Arms fitness center and pool*, and an exit evaluation. Progress updates will be provided to your referring clinician upon graduation from the program. (*Please Note: Our Bon Air pool is temporarily undergoing exciting renovations until May 2025!)
PowerEx program requirements
- Attendance at least twice per week for the duration of the 12-week program, at all 12 one-on-one sessions, and exit evaluation
- Signed PowerEx referral form by your physician (not required if referred by Sheltering Arms Institute clinician)
- Ability to complete exercise program safely either independently or with assistance from designated caregiver
How are sessions used?
- The first session is utilized to establish your exercise program, provide instruction on proper execution of exercises, and orient you to our fitness centers and pool* (*Please Note: Our Bon Air pool is temporarily undergoing exciting renovations until May 2025!)
- Subsequent sessions are used for:
- Progression of your exercise program, including education on self-progression
- Education on exercise form, technique, and evidence-based principles of exercise programming
- Motivational coaching and problem solving through current and future barriers to exercise
- Caregiver training to support your exercise program as needed
- Planning for transition to independent exercise following completion of the PowerEx program
Who qualifies for PowerEx?
- Individuals with diagnoses, including, but not limited to, cardiopulmonary, neurological (i.e., stroke, SCI, and TBI), complex orthopedic, vestibular, or multiple comorbidities
- Experienced exercisers, healthy individuals, and those who already belong to a gym but need assistance in developing an exercise plan and learning what to do in the gym
- Those who need accountability, guidance, and motivation to establish and maintain an exercise routine
- Anyone seeking a multi-faceted approach for establishing a healthy lifestyle
- “Prehab,” or those preparing for surgery (i.e., joint replacement)
PowerEx Program Results and Outcomes
Participants who complete the PowerEx program report improvements in cardiovascular endurance, balance, strength, quality of life, and mobility. See some of those improvements in our outcome measures below.
Six-Minute Walk Test
Cardiovascular endurance is measured by feet walked in six minutes. On average, PowerEx graduates experience an 11% increase in distance over the course of their program.
5x Sit to Stand
Lower body strength is measured by the time it takes to complete five sit to stands from a chair. On average, participants experience a 15% improvement in lower body strength over the course of their program.
1 Repetition Max Row
Upper body strength is measured by the maximum weight pulled in a sub max row. On average, participants experience a 23% increase in weight pulled over the course of their program.
Participant Reviews
- Kelley F.
- Gary B.
- Jacqueline O.
- Chris H.
- Former PowerEx Participant
Request an Appointment for PowerEx
If you have any questions about our PowerEx program or would like to schedule an evaluation, complete the form below or call (804) 764-5275.