FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAKE MURRAY WEST COLUMBIA, SC — Special Strong, a leading Adaptive Fitness franchise dedicated to serving individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges, today announced the launch of Special Strong Lake Murray West Columbia under franchise owner Tiffany McFarland — marking the brand’s first location in the state of South Carolina.
McFarland brings more than 25 years of experience as a Physical Therapist, caring for people of all ages across hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health, and early intervention settings. For the past 15 years, she worked within a school district, serving the pediatric community and helping children build independence in the school setting.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone overcome a challenge.”
— Tiffany McFarland, Franchise Owner, Special Strong Lake Murray West Columbia
In 2023, McFarland became certified as an Adaptive Needs Personal Trainer through Special Strong and began incorporating what she learned into her therapy sessions — her students gained confidence and made great progress toward their goals. Wanting to help adults reach their fitness goals as well, she earned her Level 1 CrossFit Certification in 2025 and began training at a local gym, rediscovering her passion for working with people of all ages.
A Calling She Couldn’t Ignore
McFarland first discovered Special Strong while searching for continuing education courses to renew her PT license. A search for “adaptive fitness” led her to Special Strong’s Adaptive Needs Personal Trainer Certification course, and she instantly connected with the program. Over time, she kept up with the brand’s success stories on social media — and this past February, she began feeling called to something greater.
“From my first Discovery Call to the moment I signed my franchise agreement, I’ve felt nothing but peace, calm, and security. I’m completely certain this is where God has called me to be.”
— Tiffany McFarland, Franchise Owner, Special Strong Lake Murray West Columbia
Answering an Unmet Need
Years spent working in schools let McFarland watch her students grow from preschool through high school — and see a gap that too often follows them after graduation. Some age out of programs or lose insurance coverage for rehabilitative or behavioral services just when they need continued support the most. Her hope is that Special Strong Lake Murray West Columbia can provide that ongoing support for the adaptive needs community once school-based services end.
McFarland’s connection to this work began early. Growing up, her grandparents lived with her family, and when she was 12, her grandfather lost function on his right side due to a brain tumor. He received physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy at home, and the physical therapist’s kindness in including McFarland in his treatment inspired her to pursue a career of her own in the field — a calling that now finds its next chapter in Special Strong Lake Murray West Columbia.
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.
