Loren Evans loves working out at ZOOZ Fitness. The 26-year-old athlete has been a regular for about three years, and he says the gym has given him newfound confidence and independence in his everyday life.

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“I feel a real sense of belonging here,” Loren shares. “Working out at ZOOZ helps me stay healthy, build muscle, and gives me more energy every day.”

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Diagnosed with autism—and having once experienced selective mutism—Loren struggled to find a gym that felt like home. He tried hiking, swimming, and even worked out with support staff at community living programs, but nothing resonated until his mother, Gilda, heard about ZOOZ Fitness through a friend. After a trial workout, Loren knew he had found the right place, and he never looked back.

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Gilda explains, “ZOOZ offers an essential service. Physical movement is crucial for everyone, but especially for those who are neurodiverse or disabled, as they often overlook this part of a healthy lifestyle. The atmosphere here is entirely different from a typical box gym—it’s warm, inclusive, and truly caring.”

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Loren agrees. “I see it all the time—the bonds between trainers and clients here create a community that you just don’t find anywhere else. I love how ZOOZ is tailored to each individual; it’s inclusive, friendly, and gives us endless opportunities to grow.”

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Loren works out three days a week at ZOOZ. He participates in one-on-one sessions twice a week with his trainer, Camilla, and also takes a taekwondo class. His workouts range from squats and circuit training to battle ropes and his favorite exercise: Blaze Pods. These smart, randomly lit cones challenge his reaction time, agility, decision-making, and coordination. Whether holding a plank or sprinting around to hit the pods, Loren embraces every challenge with a smile.

“Loren makes it all look easy,” says Camilla. “He’s always ready to push himself. Every session, he jumps a little higher, lifts a little more, and tackles those battle ropes with infectious energy.”

Loren isn’t just building physical strength; he’s growing socially, too. As one of the 472 athletes at ZOOZ, he has discovered a community that supports him in every way. “I feel more confident in my everyday life,” he says, a sentiment echoed by his fellow trainers.

Founder Jake Weiner adds, “I’ve loved watching Loren grow as an athlete since he joined us. His progress is a testament to how fitness and a healthy lifestyle can be adapted to meet everyone where they are, transforming not just bodies, but lives.”

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Looking ahead, Loren plans to continue building his strength, managing his weight, and staying healthy at ZOOZ. He is passionate about sharing his story and letting others know what a special place this gym is—where every athlete is welcomed, supported, and empowered.

“I love the friendly, supportive atmosphere at ZOOZ,” Loren concludes. “The trainers are patient and truly accommodate each client’s unique needs.”

ZOOZ Fitness isn’t just a gym—it’s a community, a family, and a testament to the power of inclusion and personalized care. For Loren Evans, ZOOZ has become a home where he can grow, connect, and thrive.