Ian Acker's Journey: Building a Sober Fitness Community
It doesn't matter whether you've got years. It's time to, if it didn't work, figure out something else.
Imagine a gym where emotional safety is just as important as physical fitness. In this episode of 'Odyssey House Journals', Randall Carlisle chats with Ian Acker, the founder of Fit to Recover, Salt Lake City's only sober gym. Ian opens up about his personal battle with addiction and how it inspired him to create a supportive space for others on their recovery journey.
This isn't your typical gym – it's a community where people can rebuild their lives, both physically and emotionally. Ian shares the story behind Fit to Recover, explaining how his own experiences with trauma and isolation shaped his vision for the gym. He talks about the importance of creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed and supported, emphasizing that emotional safety is key to successful recovery.
The conversation also highlights the role of fitness in managing stress, building confidence, and improving overall well-being. But it's not just about lifting weights and running laps. Ian and Randall discuss the significance of gratitude in recovery and how small, healthy habits can lead to transformative changes. They also touch on the importance of donor support in keeping programs like Fit to Recover running, ensuring that more people can benefit from this unique approach to sobriety.
Whether you're in recovery yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the intersection of fitness and addiction recovery, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear Ian's powerful story and learn how Fit to Recover is making a real difference in the lives of those seeking a healthier, sober life.