Providence, RI – October 19, 2026 – Special Strong, an adaptive and inclusive fitness provider serving individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges, is pleased to announce that business executive Michael Yamin and Christy Paiva, M.D., have opened a location serving Special Strong Rhode Island. A free community celebration is planned for Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at The Overlook at Meehan, 2 Gov Notte Pkwy, Building #3, North Providence. Free parking is available.
The grand opening will introduce the community to the franchise’s high-impact, customized fitness coaching for local children, teens, adults, and seniors living with physical, cognitive, and mental health challenges—including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and mobility limitations. Planned activities include live music, meet-and-greets with Special Strong trainers, adaptive workout stations and games, food and interactive stations at the gazebo featuring sand art, a stuffing station for plush toys, glitter tattoos, and a photo booth.
​Yamin brings over 30 years of experience as a multi-unit business owner-operator and operations leader, while Paiva brings critical clinical expertise as a practicing board-certified physician. Together, their combined background bridges the gap between top-tier operational execution and safe, specialized physical instruction.
​”Adaptive fitness changes lives, but families and older adults often struggle to find safe, professional, and consistent programs,” said Yamin and Paiva. “By pairing decades of business operations with a medical perspective, our goal is simple: deliver high-quality, customized coaching that builds independence, confidence, and strength for every client we serve, no matter their age or ability.”
​Special Strong was founded in 2016 by Daniel Stein, who began specializing in health and fitness for people with special needs after being diagnosed with a learning disability, mood disorder, and autoimmune disease. The company provides adaptive and inclusive fitness programs globally for individuals with diverse physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.
​”When I began franchising in 2020, I was inspired to not only help Special Strong’s clients, but also leaders who share a passion for empowering individuals with special needs through fitness,” said Daniel Stein, CEO & Founder of Special Strong. “I am thrilled that Michael and Christy are able to fulfill their goal of combining a high-impact mission with a proven operational model. Rhode Island is fortunate to have them.”
​To learn more about adaptive fitness programs, free trial sessions, or local opportunities in Rhode Island, visit Special Strong Rhode Island’s website.
