The Phoenix Introduces Free Virtual Fitness, Wellness and Support Programming For Those In Recovery During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Non-profit dedicated to building a sober, active community takes brick and mortar programming online to provide a bridge for social connectivity in wake of social distancing mandates
Denver, CO (March 26, 2020) – Maintaining sobriety while socially distancing is one of the biggest challenges facing those in recovery amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The Phoenix – a non-profit organization that fosters a supportive, physically active community for individuals recovering from substance use disorder through its innovative peer-to-peer model – has introduced a suite of free, live-streamed virtual fitness classes, wellness programming and online social events to provide critical support and social connection to this at-risk population. In addition to its virtual program offerings, The Phoenix has eight brick-and-mortar locations across the U.S., which are currently closed through April 10, 2020 due to the on-going COVID-19 situation.
For the virtual class schedule and information on participating, please visit www.thephoenix.org/virtual.
The Phoenix’s comprehensive suite of live-streamed programming is powered through Zoom and features eight daily fitness and wellness classes for participants of all levels, designed to challenge the mind and body and taught by qualified instructors from The Phoenix. The hour-long classes include:
- Bodyweight Cross Fit – Built to prepare participants for any physical contingency across all skill levels
- Move Your Body – Rotating workouts to challenge participants to increase their fitness in new ways
- Yoga – Connecting the body and mind to find relaxation through movement and bring balance
- Meditation and Mindfulness – Bringing awareness to the present experience on a “moment to moment” basis to help relieve stress and anxiety
The Phoenix is also offering daily and weekly peer social engagement opportunities to heighten social connection and support for those in recovery and help mitigate the risk of relapse during isolation, including a daily Recovery Social Hour, and a weekly Sunday Coffee Talk with Founder and Executive Director Scott Strode. All classes and programming are free and The Phoenix requests 48 hours of continuous sobriety before participation.
“The impact of isolation stemming from the necessary guidelines to mitigate the risk of spreading COVID-19 is challenging for many, but particularly for those who suffer from substance use disorder,” said Strode. “We are using our digital resources to significantly expand virtual programming and provide support for those in need. The enhanced programming – including workouts, coffee talks and social meet-ups – are designed to help alleviate the strain of social and physical distancing by bringing people together virtually to establish new ways of community engagement, connectivity and support.”
Since 2006, The Phoenix’s free sober active community has inspired more than 36,000 people across America to believe they have the strength to rise from the ashes of addiction through the support of those who are walking that very same path. Through its brick and mortar locations in major municipalities across the U.S. including Boston, MA; Denver, CO; and Costa Mesa, CA, the non-profit organization aims to redefine the addiction recovery process through its innovative peer-to-peer model, designed to facilitate human connection in a supportive environment and eradicate the stigma of addiction. Physical activity is the mechanism through which The Phoenix introduces individuals to the safe and supportive ‘sober active community’ at the heart of the program’s success.
For those seeking assistance or simply wanting to learn more, visit the website www.thephoenix.org. To donate to The Phoenix, which is funded by donations and grants, visit www.thephoenix.org/donate-to-phoenix.
