Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Flakes.
Hi Justin, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been in Education for 14yrs. I hold certifications in Generalist 4-8 and Special Education EC-12. In college, I majored in Health and Human Performance with a minor in English. It was around my 10th year of teaching that I knew the end of the road for me in education was coming but I didn’t know what I would do next. This year I decided to venture out on my own and create a business that combines my two passions: Fitness and special needs. My aim is to offer adaptive fitness classes and adaptive camps to school-age and young adults with physical and mental health issues.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a little of both. A lot of my goals are still in front of me but as I look back, I have done a lot. My website is up and accepting memberships, I have a contract with a recreation center supporting special needs and I have some prospects lined up for this summer. I have a long way to go to achieve my ultimate goal of opening an adaptive fitness gym, but I am on the right path. I am currently writing a grant that would allow me to offer free adaptive fitness classes.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about B-Fit Universal?
B-fit Universal was started in the summer of 2019 when I decided that I wanted to train for a local bodybuilding competition. While training, I realized the hard work and dedication it took and was determined to match my passion for helping those with disabilities achieve their goals of improving their body conditions through fitness to his own personal lifestyle of achieving fitness. B-fit Universal aims to enhance mind, body, spirit and soul of the physically and mentally challenged. There are many businesses that focus on health, fitness and personal training, but we focus strictly on adaptive fitness through play. Honestly, special needs are what sets us apart.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
In my leisure and especially during the cardio portion of my workouts, I like to listen to my favorite podcast “Literacy Kings”. They break down financial literacy in a unique way that is funny, relatable and understandable. I also listen to “That Wasn’t In My Textbook”. It is another podcast that speaks to historical situations and creations from the African American culture that we may not be aware of.
Contact Info:
- Website: bfituniversal.com
- Instagram: bfituniversal
