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Coleen Denton-Prater is the second generation of her family to treat local patients. She grew up in Marion and worked at the office of her father, Max Denton, a chiropractic orthopedist focusing on musculoskeletal issues. After graduating from Pleasant, Denton-Prater studied exercise science and chemistry at Miami University.
“I wanted to focus on health and fitness,” Denton-Prater said. “Dad pointed out that I could do those things and more as a chiropractic physician.”
At the National University of Health Sciences in Illinois, she met Tim Prater from Michigan. As a college football player in Kalamazoo, Prater suffered a significant injury on the field and sought chiropractic care.
“In two chiropractic visits, I was back on the field,” Prater said. “I wanted to learn to move to prevent injury.”
The two became friends while earning their doctorates.
“I remember exactly where I was standing when I first saw Coleen. She was so beautiful with her curly hair,” Prater said. “I had a big crush on her, but I didn’t think I had a shot.”
“I remember seeing him from a distance and hearing his giggle. I thought, ‘That is a really happy guy.’ I liked his energy,” Denton-Prater said.
The friends stayed in touch after graduation. Denton-Prater returned to Marion in 2008 to practice with her father.
In 2011, Denton-Prater took the leap and invited Prater on a date at the Arnold Sports Festival. As the relationship blossomed, Prater joined the family practice. The couple married in 2013 and they have two kids.
Denton-Prater specializes in chiropractic care, acupuncture, Eastern medicine, nutrition and holistic care. She also offers prenatal and postpartum care and rehabilitation. Prater focuses on chiropractic care, rehabilitation and movement challenges. Max Denton still works part time. They have two licensed massage therapists who specialize in therapeutic deep tissue and relaxation massage.
“I know you will feel cared for. We are patient listeners and take a thorough history,” Prater said. “We are trying to find the best path to healing for each patient, from back pain and migraines to chronic pain and disease.”
The practice accepts many insurance plans, including Medicare for seniors and plans for veterans. They also pride themselves on being affordable for patients without insurance.
The couple opened a second business in 2015. Prater has been a certified fitness trainer since 2003. He brought his passion for CrossFit to Marion.
“I love helping people go from dealing with disease to wellness to fitness,” Prater said. “I love coaching. To teach someone how to move safely.”
At the gym, they train clients between the ages of 14 to 88.
“You don’t have to be fit to start,” said Elizabeth Moore, a client turned fitness trainer who lost more than 100 pounds after joining Pure Function.
After clients competed in the worldwide CrossFit Open, four members advanced to the quarterfinals, including Prater. Two advanced to the semifinals. In the 65-69 age division, three members advanced to the quarterfinals, and one reached the semifinals. Harry Simmons ranks 79th in the world in the 65-69 age division.
“That’s unheard of for a little community like Marion!” Denton-Prater said.
The couple and eight certified trainers offer encouragement and coaching to members of all ages. Dwight Hill started at age 87. He comes in five days a week.
“The gym comes with a support system built in. It just fills my heart,” Denton-Prater said. “Our community’s so welcoming and open. The movements are tailored to your abilities. It’s all self-paced.”
They offer a range of classes and throughout the day. They also teach classes for adults and youth on probation.
“It’s the most rewarding thing,” Denton-Prater said. “The youth are my buddies.”
The couple praises their staff and support from the community as they see their two businesses grow and thrive.
“I know all about treating patients. Running a business is an entirely different skill set,” Denton-Prater said. “We really appreciate support from groups like BNI (Business Networking International) to help us learn the ins and outs of managing a staff, accounting, and marketing.”
This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Denton, Prater help find health solutions as this week’s MarionMade!
Reporting by Special to Marion Star, Marion Star / Marion Star
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By Special to Marion Star, Marion Star | USA TODAY Network
