“Powerful” Pat Antonecchia is the fitness coordinator at Cultivating Dreams. With over 20 years of experience supporting the disability community as well as an illustrious career as a national weightlifter champion, professional strong man and character actor in movies and music videos, Pat brings a unique passion for helping others lead a healthy life.
“My goal is to help people be as independent as possible in self-care and wellness. Even someone in a wheelchair can exercise with weights and bands.”
Fitness & Movement Coordinator Pat Antonecchia
Powerful Pat Teaches People of All Abilities
Powerful Pat teaches people of all abilities about fitness and wellness, a cornerstone of the holistic program at Cultivating Dreams Farm. Pat instructs participants of all abilities in yoga, Pilates, and free weights. Holding 4-5 fitness classes a day on a 10-acre farm has its advantages. They hike, play basketball and pickleball on the new courts as well as soccer, kickball, and other team games on the fields.
In addition to teaching how to exercise the body, Pat instructs on what foods to put in the body and how to care for it. Participants learn proper nutrition, healthy lifestyle, self-care, good hygiene practices, and positive body image.
His teaching has resulted in a great rapport with his students. They enjoy talking about favorite sports teams with the occasional roast.
Fitness and Wellness Integrated with Agricultural Skills
The fitness and wellness program is integrated with the agricultural skills program at the farm. People learn to grow healthy food they can cook and eat. Likewise, the life skills program moves people from self-care to the care and keeping of their belongings and living spaces.
Creativity on a Limited Budget
As a fitness and wellness coordinator, Pat has been very creative on a limited budget. The program is always looking for donations of equipment. If you have gently used athletic equipment and would like to donate it to the program, email Director of Day Programs Betty Rivadeneira.
To Learn More About Powerful Pat
To learn more about Powerful Pat Antonecchia, visit: http://powerfulpat.com/.
To Learn More about Cultivating Dreams Farm
To learn more about the fitness and wellness program at Cultivating Dreams Farm, come for a tour! Email Director of Day Programs Betty Rivadeneira.