15 - C.O.R.E. - A Gym Built for People Like Me

At the suggestion of my horse trainer, Jeannie, I visited the Center of Recovery & Exercise (CORE). Initially, I had low expectations, but I left with an entirely new perspective on rehabilitation and physical performance.

During my first visit, I was taken through a series of assessments. One such test was the standing broad jump, where I achieved a distance of 36 inches. The highlight, however, was experiencing the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill. This incredible device uses cutting-edge technology to reduce the impact of body weight (mine was reduced by 65%) to enhance mobility and encourage healing.

What makes the AlterG remarkable is its patented Differential Air Pressure technology, developed by NASA. It applies a consistent and comfortable lifting force while the user walks or runs with a full range of motion.

Learn more about the AlterG here: https://coreflorida.com/core-equipment/ or watch a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnbzfNG3nyQ

CORE also introduced me to their newest equipment, the AllCore360. This patented technology strengthens the body’s entire core using an isometric, balanced, and coordinated approach. With just 10-minute sessions three times a week, it addresses lower back pain, enhances injury recovery, and improves performance.

Watch a demo here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdxzNsF57rE.

My December record on the AllCore360 was a 15-degree tilt.

A special thank-you to Paul, who generously offered to sponsor additional sessions once my personal funding is depleted. I am truly grateful. Additionally, Dana from CORE assisted me with a scholarship application submitted on March 17, 2023. I’ll find out the results in July.

On March 20, I was introduced to the ICARE Madonna Elliptical when the AlterG was temporarily out of service. I completed five intervals of two minutes slow and one minute fast, reaching heart rates in the high 70s to low 80s, an excellent addition to my recovery toolbox.

Watch a demo here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okN8HusPXJY

By April 24, I was using a new muscle stimulation device called the Nuex NXPro. Far more advanced than a traditional TENS unit, it features timer options and frequency adjustments ranging from 50Hz to 250Hz.

Learn more: https://www.neuxtec.com/nxpro

On Memorial Day (May 29), I ran one mile in 13 minutes and 44 seconds—beating my goal of 14 minutes! This may seem minor to some, but it was a major milestone in just three months of training.

With that goal accomplished, I set my sights on running a 5K in December 2023. My G.O.A.L. trainers at CORE supported me every step of the way.

By June 5, I had progressed even further: during a 6-minute endurance test, I logged 2,400 steps—1.18 miles—and improved my standing broad jump to 43 inches.

On September 6, I achieved a leg press of 320 lbs, increasing to 330 lbs by October 25. One week later, I tried perispinal etanercept treatment, which turned out to be very effective. I’ve documented that journey here: https://jsango63.wixsite.com/myconnection/post/18-peri-spinal-etanercept

I owe a lot of my progress to my dedicated trainers. Brandon, who focuses on upper body, and Austin, who concentrates on lower body, have been instrumental in my recovery.

Brandon introduced me to the SkiErg, which simulates cross-country skiing: https://www.concept2.com/skierg.

He also organized “Rowvember,” a team rowing competition. My team—Matt, Morgan, and I—won with a combined total of 389,900 meters!

I also explored ancient Chinese cupping therapy, ran in a December 16 5K in 53 minutes (with my friend Jonathan), and discovered H-Wave therapy, an advanced electrical stimulation system that promotes pain relief and recovery.

Learn more: https://www.h-wave.com/

H-Wave treatments are safe, drug-free, and effective for use both in clinics and at home.

Brandon even combined H-Wave with AlterG therapy, and Sergio introduced me to a shungite blanket for grounding during sessions.

Curious about shungite?

Read more here: https://www.webmd.com/balance/health-benefits-of-shungite-stones

Lastly, as part of a friendly competition, I tried the Freak Athlete machine for curls. It was an exciting challenge!

Learn more: https://freakathlete.co/

On June 26, 2024, I officially graduated from CORE. My final aquatic session was a triumph: I completed 50 propeller spins without using my hands.

CORE has changed my life—and I hope my story encourages others to begin their own journeys.