A Friendly Los Angeles Gym Where Families Can Feel at Home

Inside UFit: A Gym for All Abilities in Van Nuys

LOS ANGELES — In Van Nuys, a gym is becoming a beacon of community for individuals of all abilities. UFit, a unique fitness center, specializes in training children and adults with neurodegenerative and physical disabilities, offering not just a workout but also a sense of safety and acceptance for families.

The center, which operates in Van Nuys, Santa Clarita, and Sunland, employs 20 coaches and serves over 250 participants. Founder Dveen Agazaryan established UFit approximately five years ago with a clear mission: to create a welcoming environment where "everyone is welcome" and individuals can feel "part of a big family."

Agazaryan’s journey began in high school when he started working with special needs families in their homes. Initially viewed as a résumé builder, his commitment grew stronger after he faced rejection from his dream colleges. "I wouldn’t change this for the world," he reflects. "It brings such joy to my heart. It brings so much joy to my family. It is a lot of work but it’s really worth it."

For parents like Mari, the changes in their children emerge gradually before becoming profound. Her son, David, now enjoys boxing and yoga, but his initial hesitation to enter the gym took weeks of encouragement. "It took about three weeks for him to actually step inside the gym and give this place a shot," she recalls. Since then, David has transformed, often reaching out to support other children.

Mari emphasizes the gym’s unique environment, contrasting it with the outside world. "When you’re here, you’re just in a safe environment," she explains. "You’re not judged; you are not excluded. Nobody needs an explanation of what’s happening. You are just understood, and you’re in a place where you belong."

Twelve-year-old Miko shares his enthusiasm for working out, saying it energizes him and helps him feel healthy and happy. His favorite exercises, including box jumps and squats, allow him to stretch "without anxiety."

The dedication of the coaches, such as Abel Monroy, is vital to UFit’s success. Monroy, who has worked at the center for three years, appreciates the diverse challenges each day brings. "You gotta come here with a big mindset," he advises, stressing the importance of patience and openness. His objective is simple: "My purpose here is just to make sure a kid walks out of here with a smile on their face. That’s it."

UFit collaborates with regional centers that assist qualifying families with costs. For those outside that network, sessions are priced at $60 each. As Autism Awareness Month unfolds in April, the financial considerations remain significant; however, families emphasize that the true value lies within the connections forged at UFit. This gym has become a sanctuary where individuals feel recognized and embraced within a community that understands them.