New inclusive Co-able Fitness gym opening at Port Adelaide hopes to ‘break down barriers’

A new gym has opened in the western suburbs – but this has one huge difference. See inside here.

A new inclusive wellness gym has opened in Port Adelaide giving those living with a disability the opportunity to embrace their fitness journey.

The new establishment aims to cater for individuals of all abilities in a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity.

Owner and founder Shane Hryhorec, who suffered a life-altering accident in 2007 leaving him without mobility from the waist down, said he became frustrated with the lack of inclusive fitness options.

“Co-able Fitness was born out of the necessity to create a space where everyone feels welcomed, supported and empowered in their pursuit of wellness,” he said.

Co-able offers an all-inclusive space. Picture Supplied

“For someone to access adaptive equipment, there are always significant training costs involved, as well as the fact that those gyms are often highly clinical environments.

Shane Hryhorec established the gym after noticing a lack of inclusive places. Picture: Supplied

“Our goal is to break down barriers and nurture a community that embraces every individual’s unique journey.”

The gym is completed with a range of specialised adaptive equipment as well as a range of conventional equipment.

The 12-month memberships at $100 per month can be paid by NDIS participants through the use of their NDIS funding.

Brodie, a wheelchair user, said the gym had been built with inclusivity in mind without feeling like a clinical space.

Inside the new inclusive gym Co-able in Port Adelaide. Picture Supplied

The wellness gym will be inclusive to all people with disabilities. Picture Supplied

The new inclusive gym Co-able has opened in Port Adelaide. Picture Supplied

“A gym that doesn’t look like a hospital clinic makes for a community that is all-inclusive,” he said.

Candice, who is visually impaired, said the space was instantly welcoming and made her feel relaxed.

“Going to the gym can be quite stressful for me, so having the lighting and the space designed the way it has been is really great for me to navigate.”

Co-able will hold a grand opening on January 19.