Phase Gym was founded in 2015 by Kevin Burke and Martin Taylor with a vision to create a friendly, inclusive gym community in the Lakeview neighborhood of Birmingham. What began as a small personal training studio has since grown into over 12,000 square feet of gym space across three locations: Lakeview, Crestwood, and Bluff Park. Despite this significant growth, inclusion and community remain the cornerstones of Phase’s mission.

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In 2023, Phase Foundation was established to expand on that mission. Kevin, who has a background in therapeutic recreation, began working with a few young men—two with autism and one with Down syndrome—within the gym setting. As the program naturally grew, it became clear there was a need for more dedicated space to serve individuals with sensory needs and their families.

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That need sparked the creation of the first-of-its-kind sensory-inclusive gym, launched in the Bluff Park neighborhood of Birmingham. As the flagship affiliate gym of Phase Foundation, this space was designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals with sensory sensitivities can challenge themselves, improve their health, and build confidence.

Phase Bluff Park is not a “play gym” or a “sensory gym”—it is a fully functioning training facility that happens to be inclusive of people with sensory challenges. We specialize in functional circuit training that builds strength, improves fine motor skills, and most importantly, enhances our clients' ability to navigate day-to-day life.

Our clients learn everything from how to deadlift to how to do box jumps. Many have gone on to compete in 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and even full marathons. We believe there are no limits to what our clients can achieve—with the right guidance, support, and community.

We offer one-on-one and group training at our Vestavia location, with limited open gym access planned for early next year. Inclusion is central to all of our programming.

Some of our clients are paired with a “Fitness Buddy”—a peer who joins them during workouts and often connects with them outside the gym as well, whether to walk, lift weights, or run together. Our group classes are also fully inclusive, and open gym hours will be available to all members.

The heart of Phase Foundation is its people. Our staff, volunteers, open gym members, and families have built a close-knit, supportive community that encourages each client to grow stronger and more confident every day.

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The friendships and relationships formed here are, without a doubt, our greatest success.