5,000
client visits
$3M
in services provided
100+
students involved
The clinic brings together compassionate care, innovative therapy, and hands-on student learning to improve the lives of many individuals. Located in Campustown, directly across the street from campus, it provides no-cost services to individuals who may not otherwise have access to specialized therapy and preventative fitness programs.
Strengthening Academic Excellence
A Legacy of Philanthropy
The clinic first opened in 2016 as the Clinic for Fitness and Function in Olin Hall, serving individuals living with chronic neurological conditions. The Glen and Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function, as it exists today, was made possible by a $1 million commitment from Polly Barton and her late husband, Glen.
The new clinic opened in 2025 in an expanded facility designed to serve a broader range of clients, provide enhanced learning opportunities, and strengthen Bradley’s impact on community health.
Our Donors
Care & Services
Care That Goes Beyond Traditional Therapy
The clinic specializes in helping individuals with chronic neurologic conditions improve mobility, function, fitness, and quality of life through evidence-based interventions and personalized support.
Unlike many rehabilitation programs, participants can receive up to 20 sessions each semester, allowing for meaningful progress and ongoing support.
Services Include
Student-Led Therapy Sessions
Innovative Programs
Clients work directly with Bradley Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Kinesiology and Health Science students under the supervision of licensed clinicians and faculty. This model provides individualized attention while helping students develop the skills and confidence needed for successful careers in healthcare.
Designed for individuals who have completed therapy services or who may not qualify for traditional services, participants may engage in 10-week-long individualized programs or participate in group therapy sessions. These programs promote continued health, fitness, and independence through structured, individualized care plans or formal group exercise settings.
Participants can continue their wellness journey through ongoing fitness and community engagement opportunities that support long-term function and quality of life.
Our programs are designed for specific client populations based on community needs and the clinic’s mission. By focusing on these targeted groups, we are able to provide specialized services that benefit participants while offering students meaningful hands-on learning experiences.
Experiencial Learning
A Powerful Learning Experience for Future Healthcare Professionals
At the Glen and Polly Barton Clinic for Fitness and Function, students don’t simply observe. They actively participate in delivering care.
Working alongside faculty and clinical mentors, students gain hands-on experience with client evaluation, treatment planning, therapeutic interventions, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These experiences help prepare graduates to become confident, compassionate healthcare professionals while making an immediate impact in the community.
The clinic combines exceptional patient care with hands-on research opportunities, allowing students to help advance the future of physical therapy.
Professionalism
Expert Supervision.
Advanced Equipment.
The clinic combines cutting-edge technology with experienced clinical mentorship to deliver exceptional care.
Students and patients benefit from guidance provided by practicing clinicians with contemporary expertise in neurologic rehabilitation. More than half of the clinic’s clinical mentors hold board certifications in specialty practice areas, bringing advanced knowledge directly into patient care and student education.
Solo Step®
Supported gait training system
LiteGait®
Mobility and balance training system
BITS®
Interactive therapy board
BlazePod®
Reactive training technology
Inform the Community
Refer a Client
Healthcare providers and community organizations are encouraged to partner with the clinic to connect individuals with chronic neurologic conditions to specialized services, fitness programming, and ongoing support.
Together, we can help more individuals improve mobility, maintain independence, and enhance their quality of life.
For referral information please contact us:
1200 W Main St.
Peoria, IL 61606
(309) 677-3489
ptclinic@bradley.edu
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Support the Future of Community Care
Join us in transforming lives through movement, education, and service.