Athletic Republic: A Unique Facility in Auburn Hills

There's a place in metro Detroit that is not only helping athletes heal, but also helping them reach their full potential.

Racing up the treadmill, blasting balls in the cage or taking on some fancy footwork are all pretty amazing accomplishments for Kelsey Krych.

"I never thought I'd get back to what I am now, ever," said Krych.

We first brought you the story of her surgery in May of 2008. The 19-year-old, Oakland University softball player had to have her ACL repaired. That's the tender ligament behind the knee that often plagues professional athletes after too much wear and tear.

Now, Kelsey is at Athletic Republic in Auburn Hills. It's part gym, part rehab facility and total fitness training.

"We are able to train any athlete. Our goal is to take any athlete to the next level, and, really, what that means is we're going to look at each athlete individually. We're able to take them through an evaluation process that helps us understand where their body is today," said Steve Mann with Athletic Republic.

One of the things they're very proud of at Athletic Republic is the treadmill. What makes it so special? We're told it's made specifically by Athletic Republic and can move at 40 degrees elevation at 28 miles per hour.

"We have now structured the ability to bridge that gap between rehabilitation, when they're done with formal physical therapy, and get them back to the playing field safely," said Thomas Perkins, D.O.

I tried out the batting cage and learned that I need better shoes and a lot of practice, but Kelsey is already there.

"I feel like I'm getting back to a hundred percent, if not more," Krych said.

You don't have to be an athlete, per se, to come to Athletic Republic. Anyone who wants to work on their speed, agility, strength or quickness can buy a package. Click here for more information.