As part of our celebration of ACE’s 40th anniversary, we are highlighting how some ACE Certified Pros are living the mission to Get People Moving and shaping the future of fitness.

Meet James Kropp, an ACE Certified Personal Trainer on a mission to inspire change. As both a Special Olympics athlete and coach, he’s breaking down barriers in his Colorado community and beyond. In addition to competing in weightlifting and training at his local gym, James leads small-group exercise sessions in person and online. He is an active physical activity leader, bridging the divide between those with intellectual disabilities and those without, while not letting his disability define him.

James was a key part of the development of our Community Physical Activity Leader (CPAL) course and workshop (see below). His input and advice were invaluable and we’re grateful for his contributions and commitment to communities getting more active. He is a natural community physical activity leader, walking the talk and engaging and encouraging others to get involved and see that movement can be fun and social.

James is also working with Special Olympics Colorado to develop a series of workouts that trainers can use in the gym and that athletes can use at home. In addition, he is on the Athlete Advisory Board for Special Olympics International as part of a project called Active Life and Longevity: Special Olympics Transforming Athlete Results (ALL STAR), the goal of which is to track Special Olympics athletes through their lives to better understand how sports and health programs affect their health.

James’s passion lies in creating inclusive spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. His goal is to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to embrace movement, showing that fitness is for everyone. “Athlete leaders can be the voice for those who do not or cannot speak up for themselves,” he says. “That’s why I love it so much.”

When he's not working, James likes to compete in the Special Olympics Colorado powerlifting regional competitions. Earlier this year, he placed first in his weight division and set personal records in the squat, bench press and deadlift.

To see James in action, check out one of his virtual training workouts, or watch a sample of the workouts he has created for Special Olympics Colorado here: Fall Into Fitness. Below that video, you’ll find links to additional workouts and stretching routines, all created and narrated by James.

If you are an active exerciser or athlete who wants to inspire and empower others to find joy in physical activity, this course is perfect for you. Learn more here: Community Physical Activity Leader.