Katie’s enthusiasm for fitness not dampened by disability

She loves to swim, lifts weights regularly and advises her friends and family on nutrition and exercise.And Katie Franz, 30, also uses a wheelchair.

After sustaining a spinal cord injury in a car accident at the age of just 16, Katie said it was always a surprise when people found out she was a qualified personal trainer.

“My interest in studying personal training began while my husband was studying at the Australian Institute of Fitness,” Katie said.

“I began reading all of his books and became fascinated with why our bodies work the way they do.

“Also, because I’m a paraplegic, I was particularly interested in how this had affected my body and ways I could strengthen my muscles for improved mobility and comfort.”

Katie then completed studies in personal training at the same institute as her husband Danny, before going on to manage the Sunshine Coast College, which offers fitness courses.

“There were concerns I wouldn’t be able to finish the practical aspect of my fitness diploma because I use a wheelchair, but I always find a way around any obstacle,” Katie said.

“I may not be able to stand over people while they do bench presses, but I can find alternative, uni-lateral exercises that are just as effective.”

While managing the college, Katie could indulge in her love of exercise and she also began training some of her family members and friends.

Katie has her own personal trainer who she sees weekly to carry out weight training and she also swims regularly for cardiovascular fitness with her daughters Chelsea, 7 and Tiana, 4.

“I must admit I often see people doing a double take when they see me slide from my wheelchair into the pool, but they’re always positive, giving me the thumbs up and saying ‘good on you’,” Katie said.

“It’s always a good feeling to challenge people’s perceptions of what people with a disability can do.”

Several months ago, Katie began working at the Spinal Injuries Association as a Peer Support Officer, which involves speaking to newly-injured patients at the Spinal Unit at Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital.

“It’s the perfect job for me because it allows me to share my experience with people that are still in the recovery and grief phase of having their spinal cord injury,” Katie said.

“My outlook on life is extremely positive; I push the boundaries of disability on a daily basis and I want to inspire others to adopt that same philosophy.

“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you choose to react.”

Katie will also share her exercise and dietary knowledge with her clients, to give them an understanding of how a healthy mind and body will greatly enhance their quality of life.

Spinal Injuries Association CEO Mark Henley said Katie’s regular interaction and rapport building with patients at the Spinal Unit was not only an opportunity for her to give practical advice such as easier ways of transferring from a bed to a wheelchair, but she provided hope that you could go on to lead a fulfilling life following a spinal cord injury.

“Katie has clearly shown that using a wheelchair is no impediment to having a job, a family and enjoying exercise and other hobbies,” Mr Henley said.

“The entire Spinal Injuries Association is dedicated to assisting and empowering its 1,500 members throughout Queensland to live independently in their community.”

For more information please visit www.spinal.com.au.

Issued 28 April.