In this Expert Q&A, Trish Severns, the CEO of the Kokomo Family YMCA, details the Y’s new rehab and recovery studio, designed to support members — especially active older adults — through every stage of health from post-rehabilitation to ongoing performance and mobility work.
Severns also describes the studio’s specialized spaces for flexibility, balance, and stability, in addition to offering Pilates, hot and cold recovery treatments, and injury screenings through community health partnerships.
Key Takeaways
- The Kokomo Family YMCA created a dedicated rehab and recovery studio to help members continue their health and healing journey beyond formal physical or cardiac rehab or when insurance coverage ends.
- The studio is designed as a quiet, focused space separate from the busy main facility, making it more welcoming and less intimidating for people working on recovery, balance and mobility.
- Key features include:
- A mobility, flexibility, and stability zone for balance and joint health.
- A separate Pilates studio for flexibility and core strength.
- Hot and cold modalities and upcoming jet massage tables.
- Elevated stretching tables for easier, safer use.
- A kiosk that recommends exercises based on specific body areas or rehab goals.
- The Y collaborates closely with healthcare partners, including hospital-based athletic trainers who provide on-the-spot injury screenings and referrals, effectively bridging fitness and medical care.
- Member reaction has been very positive, particularly among seniors and Silver Sneakers participants, who appreciate the one-on-one attention, balance-focused work, and a space that supports longevity and living well, not just living longer.
- For other industry professionals, Severns emphasizes:
- Start with real community needs, not just industry trends.
- Build and maintain partnerships with health care providers.
- Design for longevity—prioritizing joint health, stress relief and injury prevention.
- Keep the organization’s mission at the center when creating new programs and spaces.
