Business Details
8 Years
experience
Your Trusted Wellness & Physical Therapy Center in Cedar Falls
Founded in 2018, Gentle Gym was created to address the unique needs of individuals managing chronic pain, co-morbidities, and pre/post-surgical recovery. Our facility integrates physical therapy, wellness programs, and community support to provide a holistic approach to health. With specialized equipment like our warm therapy pool and infrared sauna, we offer personalized programs supervised by experienced professionals.Our team invests in continuing education to stay at the forefront of chronic care innovation while fostering partnerships with healthcare providers. We prioritize creating a safe, inclusive environment where members build relationships and develop sustainable lifestyle changes through our five pillars: MOVE, FUEL, REST, THINK, and CONNECT.
Services
Aquatic Therapy
Physical Therapy
Chronic Pain Management
Wellness Consultations
Group Fitness Classes
Infrared Sauna
Massage Therapy
Health Coaching
Pre/Post-Surgery Programs
Tai Chi
Details
- Year established: 2018
Highlights and features
- We specialize in chronic pain management with evidence-based therapeutic programs
- Our warm therapy pool features an underwater treadmill and resistance current
- Personalized programs developed by licensed physical therapists and wellness experts
- Community-focused approach with group classes and social support networks
- Integrated health pillars address physical, mental, and emotional well-being
Services
Aquatic Therapy
Our warm therapy pool features an underwater treadmill and resistance current for low-impact rehabilitation. This service helps individuals with chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, and mobility limitations improve strength and range of motion in a supportive environment. The pool is included with all membership tiers.
Chronic Pain Management
Specialized programs address chronic pain through movement therapy, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle modifications. Our approach combines physical exercise with stress management techniques to help members understand and manage their pain effectively over time.
Wellness Consultations
Personalized consultations help members create customized wellness plans. These sessions include equipment orientation, program selection, and goal setting with our experienced wellness professionals to ensure safe and effective participation.
Physical Therapy
Comprehensive physical therapy services include orthopedic care, manual techniques, and therapeutic neuroscience education. Our licensed therapists work with patients on pre/post-surgical rehabilitation, sports performance, and chronic condition management using evidence-based treatment methods.
Health Coaching
Individualized health coaching supports nutrition, stress management, and behavior change. Our coaches help members develop sustainable habits through education, accountability, and personalized strategies aligned with their specific health goals and challenges.
People
Amy VanArkel
Owner, Director
Amy founded Gentle Gym after 15 years at Agape Therapy, combining her physical therapy expertise with wellness programming. She focuses on creating inclusive spaces for chronic care and has led the development of the facility's unique community approach.
Emily Mangrich
Program Manager
Emily specializes in using exercise programs to manage chronic conditions. She emphasizes empowering members through education and personalized support while ensuring programs address all four pillars of wellness: movement, mindset, nutrition, and rest.
Sarah Paustian
Aquatics Manager
With 15 years of fitness experience, Sarah leads aquatic programming and group classes. She focuses on making wellness accessible to all fitness levels and helps members overcome barriers to lifestyle changes through structured guidance.
Megan Hingtgen
Health Coach
Megan creates personalized exercise plans while addressing emotional and mental aspects of wellness. She combines her family services background with health coaching to help members achieve holistic improvements in mobility and pain management.
Drew Mangrich
Strength Coach
Drew specializes in strength and conditioning programs tailored to individual capabilities. He focuses on progressive training methods that accommodate various health conditions while promoting long-term physical resilience.
Questions
What types of memberships are available?
We offer memberships that include access to all equipment, group classes, and wellness consultations. Specific programs are tailored during your initial assessment with our staff.
Do I need a doctor's referral to join?
No referral is required, but we may obtain medical clearance from your provider before starting your program to ensure safety and appropriateness.
What makes gentleGYM different from traditional gyms?
Our facility specializes in chronic care with staff supervision, personalized programs, and therapeutic equipment designed for individuals managing pain and complex health conditions.
Are there programs for post-surgical recovery?
Yes, we offer prehabilitation and rehabilitation programs specifically designed to prepare for surgery and optimize recovery outcomes through targeted strength and mobility training.
What wellness amenities are available?
Members have access to an infrared sauna, massage chair, PEMF mat, and sound bed therapy in our dedicated healing suite for comprehensive wellness support.
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