Select Strength Independence System (SSIS)

A structured strength and movement system for long-term independence

The Select Strength Independence System (SSIS) is a professionally guided strength, balance, and mobility program designed for adults who want to stay independent, confident, and physically capable — without needing frequent training sessions or complex technology.

SSIS emphasizes safety, consistency, and clarity. It is ideal for individuals who want a reliable plan they can follow independently, with expert oversight and support.

Who This Program Is For

SSIS is a good fit for individuals who:

Want to remain independent and physically capable
Prefer simple, low-tech instruction (printed programs + optional video demos)
Value safety and injury prevention over intensity
Are comfortable exercising on their own with a clear plan
May be transitioning out of physical therapy or reducing in-person training

Many SSIS participants are supported by adult children seeking a trustworthy, professional system for a parent's long-term health.

About Your Coach

SSIS was developed by Scott Mezzano, who has over 15 years of experience working with clients in clinical and fitness settings, including Northwestern Medicine's Executive Health Program and Jim Karas Intelligent Fitness & Wellness. Scott holds a Master of Science in Exercise Science and multiple certifications including ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist and NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

Scott's approach blends clinical knowledge with practical fitness principles to create safe, effective programs that support long-term independence.

What's Included

Each SSIS member receives:

A personalized monthly printed exercise program
Strength, balance, and mobility exercises selected from a safety-first library
Clear written instructions and visual references
Optional demonstration videos accessed via a single monthly QR code
One scheduled monthly check-in (phone or brief in-person visit)
Email support for questions (1–2 business day response time)
Personal delivery of monthly programs (Chicago metro area clients)

What This Program Is Not

To maintain safety and clarity, SSIS does not include:

Real-time coaching during workouts
High-intensity or max-effort training
Daily accountability or messaging
Exercise tracking apps or wearables
Frequent program changes

SSIS is designed for long-term sustainability, not short-term intensity.

Is SSIS Right for Me?

SSIS is designed for maintenance and prevention, not rehabilitation from injury or medical conditions.

SSIS is ideal if you:

-Have completed physical therapy and want to maintain your progress
-Are healthy and want professional guidance to stay strong and independent
-Have been cleared by your doctor for independent exercise
-Want ongoing structure and expert oversight without weekly appointments
-Are transitioning from higher-frequency training to sustainable long-term programming

Physical therapy may be more appropriate if you:

-Have acute pain or a recent injury requiring treatment
-Need hands-on therapy, manual treatment, or clinical rehabilitation
-Have significant balance impairment or fall risk requiring skilled intervention
-Have been advised by your doctor to seek physical therapy
-Require insurance-covered rehabilitation services

When in doubt: Contact us at scott@selectstrengthpt.com or (847) 493-9838 to discuss whether SSIS is right for you or a loved one. We're happy to help you determine the best path forward, even if that means referring you elsewhere.

Service Area

Currently serving clients in the greater Chicago area and surrounding suburbs. Monthly check-ins can be conducted via phone or brief in-person visit. Personal delivery of monthly programs is available within the Chicago metro area.

Clients outside the Chicago area may enroll with phone-only check-ins and mailed program delivery.

Investment & Commitment

Monthly Investment: $250 per month

What's included every month:

Personalized exercise program designed specifically for you
Professional printed program delivered to your door
Video demonstrations accessed via QR code
Monthly in-person check-in with Scott
Email support between visits

Commitment:

3-month minimum enrollment
Monthly auto-pay subscription
Cancellation allowed after the initial 3 months with 14 days' written notice prior to the next billing cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is SSIS the same as physical therapy?
No. SSIS is not physical therapy and does not treat injuries or medical conditions. SSIS is a strength and movement maintenance program designed for adults who have completed physical therapy or who want to prevent future decline. If you have acute pain, recent injury, or significant functional limitations, please consult with a physical therapist or physician first. SSIS works best for those maintaining progress after PT or seeking long-term prevention and independence.

What equipment do I need?
Most exercises use items commonly found at home (chair, countertop, stairs) or minimal equipment (resistance band, light dumbbells). Specific equipment needs will be discussed during your onboarding session, and recommendations will be made based on your goals and available space.

What if I miss a workout?
This is a flexible program designed for real life. Simply resume when you're able. Your monthly check-in is an opportunity to discuss any challenges, adjust your program if needed, and ensure you're progressing safely.

Can I pause my membership?
After completing the initial 3-month commitment, you may pause your membership for up to one month per year with advance notice. This allows flexibility for travel, recovery, or life circumstances while maintaining your long-term progress.

What's the difference between SSIS and in-home personal training?
SSIS is designed for independent exercise with monthly professional guidance and program design. In-home training provides real-time coaching at each session. Many clients transition from in-home training to SSIS as they gain confidence and independence, or use both services (for example, one in-home session monthly plus SSIS).

How quickly will I see results?
SSIS is designed for gradual, sustainable progress. Most members notice improved confidence and balance within the first month, with measurable strength gains typically appearing after 6-8 weeks of consistent practice. Your monthly check-ins help track progress and adjust your program for continued improvement.

What happens during the onboarding session?
Your onboarding includes a health history review, discussion of your goals and any physical limitations, movement assessment (if in-person), and creation of your first personalized monthly program. This session ensures your program is safe, appropriate, and aligned with your capabilities and goals.

Do I need a doctor's clearance to enroll?
While not required, we recommend consulting with your physician before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have existing health conditions, haven't exercised recently, or are unsure about your readiness. During onboarding, we'll discuss your health history and any concerns that might require medical clearance.

Ready to Invest in Your Long-Term Independence?

Secure your spot in the Select Strength Independence System.

Enrollment Process

Complete enrollment and payment below
Receive a welcome email within 24 hours
Schedule your onboarding session and program setup
Begin your first month of SSIS

Questions Before Enrolling?

If you'd like to discuss whether SSIS is right for you or a loved one, please reach out:

Scott Mezzano
(847) 493-9838
scott@selectstrengthpt.com

Select Strength exists to improve quality of life through guided fitness training that aligns with the goals and needs of each individual client.

Enroll Now