Breaking Barriers: How Bungee Fitness is Transforming Lives for People with Disabilities

Movement is a fundamental part of life, one that many of us take for granted. For individuals with disabilities, however, access to fitness and rehabilitation opportunities can be incredibly limited. But what if there was a way to break through those barriers?

Abigail Ward, a determined young woman with cerebral palsy, her supportive mother, Michelle, and Elaine Stapleton, a dedicated Bungee Super Fly® instructor from Liverpool, UK. Together, they are proving that bungee fitness isn’t just an exercise, it’s a revolutionary tool for mobility, strength, and independence.

A Life-Changing Discovery

For Abigail, fitness wasn’t always accessible. After leaving school, where she had regular physiotherapy, she found herself struggling to access physical training that truly supported her needs. The transition to adulthood often means losing many of the resources that were available as a child, leaving many individuals with disabilities without proper support.

After three years of searching for a personal trainer, Abigail stumbled upon bungee fitness through an Instagram video. She saw someone with cerebral palsy training in a bungee harness and thought, “Could this work for me?” With determination and curiosity, she reached out to Elaine, and that decision changed her life.

The First Step into the Bungee

Abigail’s first session was a challenge. “I couldn’t even stand up in the harness,” she recalls. Elaine, who had never worked with a client with cerebral palsy before, also had initial doubts. “I was confident in the bungee,” Elaine says, “but I needed to be confident in Abigail.”

It didn’t take long for both of them to realize that bungee fitness was the missing link. Abigail could move in ways she hadn’t for years. The harness supported her, but at the same time, challenged her muscles and balance.

Now, after consistent training, Abigail is doing things she never imagined possible; standing on her own, walking on a treadmill, and even attempting handstands. “My goal was just to stand again. Everything else has been a bonus,” she says.

A Mother’s Perspective: Watching Transformation Happen

Michelle, Abigail’s mother, has been by her side through every challenge. At first, she was skeptical. “I honestly thought it wouldn’t work,” she admits. “Even in the first half-hour of training, I thought, ” What are we doing here?” But, Elaine adapted everything for Abigail, and now, the progress is unbelievable.”

One of the most emotional moments for Michelle was when she was able to hug her daughter standing up. “I usually have to lean over her wheelchair or crouch down,” she explains. “But in the bungee, we stood together, and that moment was incredibly powerful.”

More Than Physical Progress – A Boost in Confidence

Beyond mobility and strength, bungee fitness has given Abigail something even greater, confidence and independence. She no longer fears transferring from her wheelchair. If she slips, she can catch herself. She feels stronger in her everyday life, and that confidence is carrying over into other areas, like work and social life.

“I don’t have to ask for help constantly anymore,” Abigail says. “It’s a great feeling.”

A Call to Action: Making Fitness More Inclusive

Despite the clear benefits, fitness opportunities for individuals with disabilities remain scarce. Many personal trainers are hesitant to work with people who have mobility challenges simply because they don’t know how to adapt the exercises. Elaine took the leap and figured it out alongside Abigail.

“There’s a massive market for this,” Michelle emphasizes. “Gyms aren’t equipped for people in wheelchairs. Physios often focus more on manipulation rather than strength-building. We need more trainers willing to give it a try.”

That’s why spreading awareness about bungee fitness is so important. Abigail’s story proves that movement is possible for everyone, it just takes the right approach and an open-minded coach.

What’s Next for Abigail?

Abigail isn’t stopping here. She’s now working towards riding a bike again, a goal she never thought possible. With bungee fitness, she has rediscovered her strength, her determination, and most importantly, her freedom.

When asked to describe bungee fitness in one word, she smiles and says:
“Free.”

Join the Movement

Bungee Super Fly® is more than just a fitness program, it’s an opportunity for empowerment, inclusion, and transformation. If you’re a coach, therapist, or someone looking to improve mobility in a new and exciting way, it’s time to rethink what’s possible.

Want to learn more about how Bungee Super Fly® can change lives? 

Let’s make movement accessible for everyone.