Gray Institute for Functional Transformation (GIFT) is a 40-week mentorship program in Applied Functional Science® (AFS). It is classified as post-professional education, yet it is so much more. As Director of GIFT for 14 years, I have seen, heard, and have been humbled by how this program enhances careers professionally and lives personally.

In this blog, I’ll explain why I’m deeply passionate about Applied Functional Science and the GIFT Fellowship, focusing on several key issues:

  • The program’s history
  • How it builds content, confidence, and community
  • The recent updates to the GIFT program

Keep reading to learn more!

GIFT Revolutionized Movement Science

In 2006, Dr. Gary Gray and Dr. David Tiberio set out to create an environment where movement professionals from around the world would come together, systematically learn AFS online and in-person, up the standard of care in the movement industry (focusing on prevention, performance, and rehabilitation), and encourage one another through a community that brings so much experience and expertise. A year later, GIFT launched its inaugural program.

While we’ve always believed in the power of AFS, I don’t know if any of us realized how influential GIFT would become. After 14 years, more than 1,100 professionals from over 30 countries have become a Fellow of Applied Functional Science® (FAFS)!

I would argue that GIFT is one of the most influential catalysts in enhancing a movement professional’s career. The question this statement may garner is simple: How? I believe the how is answered in the value of the program, which can be broken down into three Cs: Content, Confidence, and Community.

Content, Confidence, and Community

Our content falls under the umbrella of AFS and teaches you how the human movement system really functions. GIFT’s content reconciles the differences and inconsistencies in traditional movement education. How textbooks teach biomechanics (table-based, one-dimensional) is drastically different than real-world biomechanics (context-based, three-dimensional). Those that have taken GIFT have found the content enlightening because it addresses the true cause of dysfunction, rather than just treating the symptoms and compensations.

As you learn, apply, and grow in the content, you’ll find that you build confidence. GIFT provides the wherewithal to treat and train everyone. You’ll discover that you approach your clients’ and patients’ challenges with a new perspective, and you’ll be able to uncover the real causes of their dysfunction, improving lives and building up your reputation as a leader in the industry.

Finally, the program’s community is filled with like-minded and like-hearted professionals that support one another, fostering growth and camaraderie.

Being able to systematically learn this type of information sets GIFT apart. Being able to apply this information through a variety of opportunities (forums, assignments, quizzes) further sets GIFT apart. Being able to accomplish the above within a trusted, supportive community of professionals makes GIFT a second-to-none program.

RELATED: Craig and Tim’s Story: Physical Therapists Solve Complex Problems with AFS

The GIFT Fellowship Continues to Evolve

One thing I have learned in life is that change is inevitable. This has applied greatly to GIFT over the years and, especially, going into 2021.

At Gray Institute®, we believe that learning should never stop. We believe that GIFT is the gold standard in continuing education for physical therapists, personal trainers, performance coaches, and other movement professionals. Every year, we develop new information, enhance our existing materials, and provide GIFT Fellows access to the online content year after year. GIFT Fellows that took the program in 2007 can access the online content even now. This is invaluable.

Today’s reality has led us to enhance GIFT even more. We’re now offering an Online-Only option, as well as the Online + Gatherings option. In an ever-changing world, we are excited to announce this change, as it addresses our community’s current needs, gives us space for continued growth, and empowers us to impact our students for a lifetime.

As we prepare for the GIFT class of 2021, here are some changes we want to highlight:

  • The program will begin in February instead of January
  • Two GIFT Gatherings instead of three, taking place in May and November
  • Three full days for gatherings instead of two-and-a-half
  • Reduced Tuition for Online + Gatherings, even lower tuition for our Online-Only option
  • Opt-in and opt-out possibilities for gatherings
  • Discount opportunities, including Early Bird, Group, and Gray Institute “credit” for certifications and specializations you’ve already purchased
  • Five Payment Plans for each offering
  • Zoom or virtual calls during the 40-week program

For more details, please review our updated GIFT Brochure or contact me directly.

Are You Ready to Take Your Career to the Next Level?

As 2021 arrives, so will the 15th year of GIFT. With the options of Online-Only and Online + Gatherings, I believe that our fellowship will continue to be the premier program for people across the globe who want to be their community’s go-to movement professionals. I believe the success of the program is due to the more than 1,100 professionals that have trusted Gray Institute to deliver GIFT’s content, confidence, and community. Because of them, the program will continue to be a beacon in the industry where learning is amplified, careers are invigorated, and friendships are generated.

If you’d like to learn more about GIFT, contact Gray Institute today.