Frequently Asked Questions for Prospective GIFT Fellows

1. What is the Gray Institute for Functional Transformation (GIFT)?
   GIFT is a 40-week mentorship program designed to elevate movement professionals to an elite level of knowledge and skill in Applied Functional Science® (AFS). The program includes comprehensive online content, in-person gatherings, and an additional certification in Functional Manual Reaction®. You can learn more about GIFT by visiting this page.
    
2. Who should apply for GIFT?
   GIFT is ideal for physical therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers, chiropractors, and other movement or medical professionals looking to deepen their understanding of functional movement and enhance their life and work.
    
3. What are the options for completing GIFT?
   You can choose between the Online + Gatherings option, which includes online content and two in-person gatherings, or the Online Only option, with the flexibility to join the gatherings later for an additional fee.
    
4. What is included in the Online + Gatherings option?
   This option includes access to all online educational materials, over 75 hours of in-person instruction (plus many personal connections) at two GIFT Gatherings, and an additional certification in Functional Manual Reaction® (FMR).
    
5. Can I join the gatherings later if I choose the Online Only option?
   Yes, participants in the Online Only option can opt in to the gatherings in the future for an additional fee. Contact us to learn more.
    
6. What is Functional Manual Reaction® (FMR)?
   FMR is a certification included in the GIFT program that focuses on advanced manual therapy techniques, understanding the interplay between real (bone) motion and relative (joint) motion, and the effects of influential forces such as gravity and musculature. Learn more about FMR.
    
7. How much time should I expect to dedicate each week?
   Participants should expect to dedicate approximately 4-5 hours per week to complete GIFT coursework, although this can vary based on individual study habits and schedules. GIFT was designed for professionals with busy lives, so the schedule has flexibility built in to allow for vacations, unplanned events, etc. Most watch their content while getting ready in the morning, over lunch, or in small chunks throughout the week.
    
8. When are the GIFT Gatherings?
   Our Gathering events are scheduled in May and November of your GIFT year. Get the specific dates and learn more about the gatherings here.
    
9. Is joining GIFT worth the investment of time and money?
   The short answer: Yes, absolutely.
   
   The better answer: Your ability to help others is only as strong as your own understanding. GIFT gives you the tools, mentorship, and system to become confidently competent at an elite level—something no weekend course or social media “hack” can deliver.
   
   You’ll gain practical strategies, world-class movement knowledge, and personal mentorship to radically improve your assessments, interventions, and results. And you won’t be doing it alone—you’ll be joining a global community of serious professionals who are all committed to mastering Applied Functional Science® and transforming the way they serve.
   
   GIFT isn’t just education—it’s a professional transformation. You’ll look back and wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
    
10. Are there any prerequisites for joining GIFT?
    No. We believe this information should be available to anyone who seeks it. Applicants who are credentialed professionals in the fields of therapy, training, and rehabilitation are our most common Fellows, but we love to welcome others who are passionate about learning and applying this information --  even if only in their own lives.
     
11. What are the payment options for GIFT?
    GIFT offers several payment plans, including in full, quarterly installments, and monthly installments over one or two years. Specific details can be found in the financial considerations section on our website.
     
12. Are there any discounts available?
    Yes, there are several discount opportunities, including an Early Bird Discount, Group Rate Discount, and a Gray Institute® Credit Discount for those who have completed other Gray Institute certifications or specializations. You can learn more here.
     
13. What happens if I need to cancel my registration?
    Sometimes, life has unexpected changes that can cause you to seek to cancel your registration or consider alternative enrollment options. We understand and have worked through these situations with others. Please contact us to discuss the best path for you. Call +1 517-266-4653 and ask for Doug Gray or email us at gift@grayinstitute.com.
     
14. How do I apply for GIFT?
    You can apply for GIFT by visiting our application page at https://grayinstitute.com/gift-app. After submitting your application, a GIFT representative will contact you to complete the enrollment process.
     
15. I don’t have time for a 40-week mentorship. Is there a shortcut?
    Are you sure you don’t have time? GIFT takes about 4–5 hours per week, less time than most professionals spend scrolling or rewatching outdated techniques on YouTube.
    
    But the payoff? GIFT saves you years of trial-and-error, second-guessing, and case complexity that eats at your confidence. It gives you a trusted system, personal mentorship, and the clarity you’ve been searching for.
    
    So ask yourself this: if you could trade a few hours each week for a career of breakthroughs, wouldn’t it be worth it?
    
    Just something to think about.
     
16. What if I have more questions?
    If you have additional questions, contact us directly for more information using the form below, phone, or email. We're here to help! Our office number is +1 517-266-4653. Our email address is gift@grayinstitute.com.