The Adapted Kinesiology (KNEA) Program at Saddleback College instructs students in exercises designed to maintain their health, well-being and improve their quality of life. In tandem with the instructor, students develop fitness goals and an individualized exercise plan sometimes using special equipment to aid in student success.
We value independence in our students, both in small and larger exercise groups. Although we are not able to provide one-on-one assistance for the entire duration of the class, we do have a number of class assistants, interns, and volunteers who help to keep the students safe. Caregivers and family members (after signing a volunteer waiver) are allowed in class to provide any needed 1:1 assistance.
We strongly encourage students to receive appropriate medical treatment and rehabilitation before enrolling in our classes, which are all designed to maintain and improve physical conditioning. We are not a rehabilitation facility and do not provide physical therapy.
The KNEA program serves a wide range of people with physical and cognitive disabilities, such as:
- Cognitive disabilities (i.e. Autism, Developmental Delays, and Learning Disabilities, etc.)
- Orthopedic conditions (i.e. low back pain, etc.)
- Visual and hearing impairments
- Chronically painful conditions (i.e. Fibromyalgia, etc.)
- Neurological conditions (i.e. Post-Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, etc.)
- Traumatic conditions such as brain and spinal cord injury
- Inherited conditions (i.e. Down Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, etc.)
- Temporary conditions such as post recovery from a knee or hip injury/surgery
- Metabolic conditions (i.e. diabetes and obesity, etc.)
- Psychological challenges (i.e. anxiety and depression, etc.)
- Other conditions not listed above
Classes Offered
Adapted Strength Training is designed to enhance muscular strength, endurance, and overall fitness while accommodating individual abilities and needs. This class incorporates resistance training and functional exercises, customized to align with each student's goals, precautions, and contraindications.
Adapted Cardiovascular Conditioning is a specialized fitness class designed to improve heart health, endurance, and overall well-being for individuals with varying physical abilities and needs. Workouts are individualized to align with each student's goals while considering any precautions or contraindications related to their abilities. Specialized equipment, such as the NuStep, is available to support a safe and effective exercise experience.
Adapted Stretch and Core Strengthening is a group fitness class designed to enhance flexibility, stability, and core strength through customized exercises. The class blends safe, effective stretching techniques with core-strengthening movements, each adapted to meet students' individual abilities and goals with consideration to any precautions or contraindications. Adaptive equipment, such as straps, BOSU balls, and stretching props, is provided to support proper form and maximize the benefits of each exercise.
Adapted Swimming is a group fitness class designed to improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health through lap swimming, stroke technique instruction, and water-based exercises. The class caters to individuals of all skill levels, with personalized instruction tailored to meet each participant’s abilities, goals, with consideration to any necessary precautions. Adaptive equipment such as snorkels, kickboards and swim fins, are used to enhance movement, improve form, and maximize the benefits of each exercise.
Adapted Sports is a fitness class that provides students the opportunity to engage in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, floor hockey, pickle ball and more, with modifications to meet individual needs. Designed for students who need assistance or equipment adaptations. This class ensures a supportive environment where everyone can participate regardless of ability level. Teaching methods and game rules are personalized, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and having fun.
Adapted Water Exercise and Aerobics is a class designed to improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health through water-based exercises in a shallow, heated pool. This class utilizes adaptive equipment such as flotation devices, aqua joggers, and resistance bands to support students and enhance the effectiveness of each exercise. The class is tailored to meet the individual needs of each student, with teaching methods adapted to ensure safety and maximize benefits.
Adapted Outdoor Education and Recreation is a class that provides students with the opportunity to explore a variety of outdoor activities in the beautiful natural surroundings of Southern California. Participants will engage in activities such as hiking, kayaking, sailing, pickleball and more. This class is designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and life skills in a supportive environment where students can challenge themselves and expand their horizons.
Program Information
The Adapted Kinesiology (KNEA) Program at Saddleback College provides students with disabilities access to a supportive, community-based exercise and activity program. Adapted kinesiology classes are offered to students who have a verified disability.
This program guides students through exercises specifically designed to enhance their health and well-being, with specialized consideration for their disability. Working closely with the instructor, students establish personal fitness goals and develop individualized exercise plans tailored to their unique needs.
Our classes are conducted in a group setting to foster a supportive and engaging environment. As our classes are group-based, our team of adapted aides is available to provide assistance as needed to ensure student success and safety. While we do not function as a rehabilitation facility or provide individualized therapy; we collaborate with community healthcare providers and offer instruction from highly trained specialists.
Feel free to explore our instructors' bios to get to know their expertise and background.
To enroll in an Adapted Kinesiology Class at Saddleback College, a student should:
- Be 18 or older or have completed high school.
- Have a physical or cognitive disability that can be medically verified
- Benefit from Instruction
If you would like to learn more, we invite you to observe a class in person. Please schedule a time with Instructor Renee Augsburger by calling (949) 582-4679. This is a great opportunity to experience our classes firsthand and see if they are the right fit for you.