The STAR Center is a unique asset for the greater La Crosse Community. At the STAR Center you will find a welcoming and supportive community. We welcome anyone who has a challenge to being active.
No Matter what your challenge
It does not matter what makes physical activity difficult for you. Be it a medical condition, a physical disability, coordination issue, a cognitive issue, a neurologic condition, or simply deconditioned, we are here for you.
- You do not need a specific diagnosis.
- You do not need to be on social security disability.
- You do not need to use an assistive device or a wheelchair.
- You do not need a referral from a physician or therapist to join.
We meet you at your level of ability
You only need the desire to restore, sustain or build on your ability to be active. We will meet you at your level of ability. We will modify any activity so that you can successfully participate in physical activity and live your best life. With over 50 hours of classes and programs offered each week, there is one that will meet your needs and interest. Our goal is to have everyone meet the recommended level of weekly physical activity for a healthy life.
Support On Your Fitness Journey
Many of our participants have not been able to be active for years. Others are recovering from a recent change in function due to surgery, trauma or medical illness. We serve members across the life span. Some are dealing with life long disability challenges. In a short period of time new members realize that when they are given the right support and modifications they are capable of being active and improving their health, function and quality of life. Together they gain strength, endurance and confidence in their independence. In addition to improved function and decreased pain, they also find a wonderful community of friends.
Free Trail Classes Rediscover Physical Activity
Uncertain if a program is right for you? We offer a free trail of our classes and programs. Reach out to us if you have questions on starting your journey at info@starcenterlacrosse.org, our staff is waiting to help you.
WE APPROACH EXERCISE WITH A PURPOSE TO IMPROVE YOUR FUNCTION
- Adaptive equipment and machines utilized during program
- Exercise techniques are specific to your diagnosis
- Programs are based on research known to address specific challenges
- Specialized equipment not available elsewhere in the community
- We meet you at your level of ability and fitness
- Transition time during programs are modified
- Modifications for sitting, supported exercise, standing or on the floor
- Modifications and progressions of exercises throughout program
- Support from university students and volunteers
- Our sports and recreation programs provide all necessary equipment
- Adaptive sport wheelchairs, race chairs, sleds and frame runners are supplied
- We take time to connect with you and the needs and goals you want to achieve in your health journey!
Five General Program Categories to fit your specific need
- Specialized Exercise
- Focused on exercises that address specific disease or disability symptoms and challenges.
- learn more about Specialized Exercise
- Modified Exercise
- Are programs that are open to any disability, mobility challenge, or level of fitness. Exercises are modified to meet each individuals ability. Care is taken to not aggravate sore joints and muscles and mobility limitations.
- Adaptive Recreation
- Are sports and recreation programs that are geared for those individuals who have intellectual or developmental disabilities or muscle strength or coordination challenges.
- Learn more about Adaptive Recreation
- Para / Wheelchair Sports and Recreation
- Programs that are geared for those with physical disabilities
- Learn more about Para / Wheelchair Sports and Recreation
- Inclusive Recreation
- Geared for everyone, regardless of age and ability
- Learn more about Inclusive Recreation
“The STAR Center bridges the medical model to the community model. That bridge doesn’t exist to the extent it should, because most health clubs aren’t set up to accommodate the health and wellness needs of individuals with disabilities.”