Fitness Warriors Now Accepting Applications for Next Class of Recruits
RICHMOND, VA — Sports Backers and Richmond City Health District today announced the launch of the next class of the Fitness Warriors program, part of Sports Backers’ community fitness initiatives. The application period for those interested in joining the program is now open, and the deadline to apply is November 4. Applications can be found at the following site: www.tfaforms.com/4637260
The Fitness Warriors program trains members of the community with talent, passion, and potential to be professional fitness instructors for Richmond’s communities with the highest rates of chronic disease. The Fitness Warriors program breaks down barriers to physical activity and provides increased access to fitness opportunities to residents of all corners of the Richmond region. Fitness Warrior program members display a broad spectrum of leadership skills and receive free training to be group exercise instructors. Throughout the program, Warriors meet as a class and get dedicated training and support from professionals in the field.
As part of their training, Fitness Warriors teach hundreds of hours of free fitness classes to help others reach their fitness goals. Fitness Warriors work in communities to expand the fitness opportunities offered through schools, churches, senior residences, community centers, and other settings. By teaching these weekly classes around the Richmond region, Warriors hone their skills and provide a vital resource for communities that otherwise lack ready access to fitness and physical activity opportunities.
The Fitness Warriors program has made a tremendous community impact since its creation in 2014. In that time, 100 Warriors have completed the program – many of whom continue to lead free classes, mentor new instructors, and serve as leaders in the fitness industry. There are currently 53 free fitness classes being taught in 40 different locations due to the tireless work of the Fitness Warriors. The most recent program survey showed over 1,900 new individuals have attended a class, with many returning on a regular basis, and participants also reporting the following benefits:
- 52 percent reported reduced stress and improved mood
- 55 percent reported improved ability to function in daily activities/tasks
- 60 percent reported increased cardio endurance
- 40.1 percent reported weight loss
- 75 percent reported increased energy level
- 56 percent reported increased flexibility
- 52 percent reported increased strength
- 9 percent reported reduced medications
To continue making an impact in the communities that need it the most, Sports Backers is gearing up to train a new cohort of Warriors. The Fitness Warriors Program is a partnership between Sports Backers, the Richmond City Health District, Fit2Go, and the American Council on Exercise (ACE). To learn more about applying to become a Warrior or to host group exercise classes for your community, visit https://www.sportsbackers.org/program/fitness-warriors/.
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