TELLICO VILLAGE — Steve Davis, a personal trainer at Flexx Fitness Personal Training Solutions in Tellico Village, recently completed a Neuro Specialist Certification focused on exercise strategies for adults experiencing neurological and balance-related challenges.
Davis traveled to Dallas to complete the certification through the Neuro Specialist Institute, based in Los Angeles, California. The program provides education in adapting exercise for people recovering from strokes, brain injuries and other neurological conditions, as well as those experiencing dizziness, balance problems and age-related cognitive changes.
The certification builds on 36 hours of advanced coursework in functional neurology that Davis completed over the past year through the Carrick Institute. His studies included the relationship between exercise, movement and brain health.
The additional training is intended to help Davis develop exercise programs for individuals whose physical challenges may require modifications beyond traditional strength and conditioning routines.
Brent Parkhill, owner of Flexx Fitness Personal Training Solutions, said Davis has focused on working with people who may have difficulty finding appropriate fitness programs.
“Steve has made it his mission to help and coach people otherwise forgotten by the fitness industry,” Parkhill said. “The folks who have been struggling with neurological and cognitive decline sometimes feel like their only option is to pack it in, but there are amazing opportunities that exist to help people. And Steve Davis has the knowledge, patience, and skills to give people the courage and strength to live their lives to the fullest.”
For older adults, concerns about falling, dizziness, reduced coordination or changes in cognitive function can make physical activity more difficult. Some may become less active because of uncertainty about which exercises are safe or appropriate for their abilities.
Davis’ specialized education includes exercise strategies related to balance and vestibular function. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps the body maintain balance and spatial orientation.
His studies also address neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize in response to learning, experience or injury. Researchers continue to study how physical activity may support neurological function and recovery.
Exercise can play an important role in maintaining strength, mobility, balance and the ability to perform everyday activities. However, individual needs vary, particularly among people recovering from neurological injuries or managing chronic conditions.
Specialized fitness training is not a substitute for medical treatment or rehabilitation. People experiencing neurological symptoms should consult their health care providers before beginning or changing an exercise program, particularly when dizziness, falls or significant mobility limitations are involved.
For individuals who can participate safely, appropriately modified exercise may offer opportunities to maintain physical function, build confidence and remain active.
Parkhill said the goal is to help clients work toward realistic improvements based on their individual abilities rather than allowing physical limitations to discourage them from participating in exercise.
Flexx Fitness Personal Training Solutions is located at 266 Mialaquo Road in Mashburn Plaza near Sloan’s in Tellico Village. The business provides individualized strength and conditioning services.
For more information, call 865-657-6190.
