The gym, based in Wallace High State, will celebrate its fifth anniversary on April 1st, but 2024 as a whole will mark the end of 2024, when the gym's founder and chief instructor, Phil Churchill, spent five years battling Parkinson's disease. I will continue my efforts.
After Phil was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and was no longer able to teach at a traditional martial arts school, he created the company with the goal of providing an inclusive space where everyone can work out, regardless of physical ability, gender, etc. , I started training for Plan C.
Since its grand opening, Plan C has provided martial arts classes to hundreds of people, including adults and children, many of whom struggle with disabilities and mental health issues.
We also offer general fitness classes, circuit sessions, and women-only self-defense classes that started when the gym was first established.
Through mentoring and coaching, Plan C helps students with autism, students with physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy, or who are confined to a wheelchair, as well as students and instructors who are registered as visually impaired. We have supported
Jane Churchill, Phil's wife and key member of the gym, spoke about Phil and how his classes influenced various people in the local area. she said:
“When you first think about martial arts, you think, 'I'll never be able to kick like that,' or 'I'm not going to be strong enough,' but Phil has Parkinson's disease and is very open about it. What you have said is an inspiration to others.”
“It’s like saying it doesn’t matter, you can still participate, it doesn’t matter if you have a disability or have concerns about your physical strength or confidence.
“Many people think of martial arts as just fighting, but it's so much more than that.
“So many people have come and their confidence and self-esteem is completely different.
“It's not just about fighting. It's such a confidence booster and it actually gives people the confidence to think they can tackle anything.
“Phil is an inspiration in that way. He continues to face and adapt to his disability.”
The company is now also aiming to start offering classes in schools and provide receptacles to children in need.
Jane explains: “My background is in teaching children with special needs, so I would like to work with some schools to start special needs classes, because it focuses attention, discipline and self-esteem. Because it's great for things like ADHD.”
“And some kids don't know how to vent their anger or frustration. They know this is a place to do that and a place to let off steam. So this is really helpful and then it helps me really focus the rest of the time.”
“And it really helps teach them respect for themselves and focus on that.
“We want to show that martial arts is more than just fighting, it's really beneficial for both children and adults.”
So if you want to try martial arts or a fitness class but don't feel confident, I think I know a guy who can help.
