A Leap of Faith: David and Jessi Neumann Open Special Strong Oklahoma City

A healthcare professional and a Child Protective Services veteran combine personal loss and professional advocacy to build an adaptive fitness home for Oklahoma City

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Special Strong, a leading Adaptive Fitness franchise dedicated to serving individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges, today announced the launch of Special Strong Oklahoma City under franchise owners David and Jessi Neumann, serving the Oklahoma City metro area.

David Neumann brings a strong healthcare, athletic, and community background to Special Strong, with professional experience at the VA Hospital, SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, and Our Blood Institute, where he currently works. A background in wrestling taught him discipline, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up when faced with challenges — qualities that carried him through his own experience overcoming physical challenges, including recovering from back surgery.

“Starting a business is a leap of faith, and there are a lot of things that are outside of my control. What gives me the confidence to move forward is my faith and my belief that I am being led in the right direction.”
— David Neumann, Franchise Owner, Special Strong Oklahoma City

For David, the mission is deeply personal. His younger brother had cerebral palsy and passed away, giving David firsthand insight into the challenges individuals with disabilities and their families can experience — insight that shapes his commitment to building a welcoming, judgment-free environment for OKC’s athletes and families.

A Partnership Built on Advocacy

Jessi Neumann, David’s wife and business partner, brings more than 10 years of experience working in Child Protective Services. Her career has involved working directly with children and families navigating difficult circumstances, advocating for vulnerable children, and building trust in some of the hardest moments families face. That experience gives her a valuable perspective in working with children with disabilities and the families who depend on Special Strong for a safe, supportive environment.

“We wanted something more than a traditional business,” the Neumanns said. “We wanted a purpose-driven business where we could help individuals with disabilities become stronger, more confident, and more independent, while supporting the families who trust us with their loved ones.”

David has deep roots in the Oklahoma City metro area. His father is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran stationed at Tinker Air Force Base, and David grew up with a strong appreciation for military service and the Oklahoma community. He graduated from Carl Albert High School before continuing his education at Rose State College and the University of Central Oklahoma. Special Strong Oklahoma City serves communities throughout the greater Oklahoma City metro area.

About Special Strong

Founded in 2016, Special Strong provides adaptive fitness training for children, adolescents, and adults with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Through its rapidly growing franchise model, Special Strong empowers communities to offer inclusive fitness programs that improve health, build confidence, and promote independence. With a foundation built on faith and service, Special Strong continues to expand nationwide, making a lasting impact one life at a time.