Caldwell Woman Creates Fitness Mag For Special Needs Community

CALDWELL, NJ — For Yomi Karade of Caldwell, her life as a mother of a child with special needs has been “an incredible journey.” And it’s not over yet, she says.

Karade, originally from England, is planning to launch a publication she founded, Special Needs Fitness Magazine, this October. And when she does, she hopes it will be a big boost to people like her son, who has been diagnosed with autism, albinism, a visual impairment and several food allergies.

“So many of us have loved ones who have a disability or special need,” Karade said. “I feel that it is very important that they are equally celebrated and honored as those who don't have challenges or differences. In the past, this has not fully been the case.”

“We hope that this publication can help bridge this gap,” Karade said.

The magazine will be available in the U.S., U.K. and Canada. It also will be available online at www.specialneedsfitnessmagazine.com. Advertising, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available. For more information, contact info@specialneedsfitnessmagazine.com.

According to Karade, her own experience has come with challenges – but also many joys. And one of them is the cooperative spirit of the people she’s met along the way.

Karade has been a certified ace personal trainer since 2017 and is a New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities vendor. She trains adults with and without disabilities under her training program, Inclusive Fitness Programs (IFP) at Embracing Fitness in Little Falls, in-home and via Zoom.

Even during last year’s lockdown, Karade kept her trainings and classes going online, to maintain her clients’ wellness. Often, her son eagerly joined in the group zumba, yoga and strength training classes.

So far, several people have offered to contribute their expertise and stories to the magazine, including personal trainers, doctors, nurses, therapists, nonprofits and health care specialists. It’s left Karade “overjoyed,” she said.

“It has taught me the power of love and what sweet blessings, small or large, come with this beautiful special needs/disabilities community,” Karade said.

Karade was set on launching Special Needs Fitness Magazine before the pandemic hit in March last year. Now, the launch is officially back on track for the fall of 2021. And it’s a huge relief, she said.

“This last year or so has not been easy on any of us,” Karade said. “It has made me focus deeply on the greater need for all of us to care about what we put in our bodies, mind-health, and how we care for our bodies.”

• See related article: Caldwell Trainer Serves Special Needs Clients At Verona Gym

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