RICHMOND, Va. — Twenty-six people were recognized for graduating the six-month Fitness Warriors program Thursday night at the Imani Conference Center in Richmond. The Fitness Warriors program is a partnership between Sports Backers, the Richmond City Health District, and Fit-To-Go, with generous support from the Anthem Foundation, according to Sports Backers spokesman Pete Woody.
Fitness Warriors program graduated (PHOTO: Sports Backers)
Participants train for six months to become fitness instructors, working with mentors and previous graduates. While training, the participants teach free fitness classes at churches, libraries and schools in their communities.
“The Fitness Warriors are leading the effort to provide fitness opportunities to communities that lack them, and they also motivate and support individuals and their families to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle, which can lead to lasting change,” Danny Avula, Deputy Director of the Richmond City Health District, said.
Fitness Warriors is part of the Sports Backers’ ‘Keep It Moving’ initiative.
The classes are often held in areas plagued by high obesity, diabetes and heart disease rates. The graduates held classes in Richmond, Henrico, Hopewell, Petersburg and Charles City.
“It’s great to work with Anthem to prepare these community-based fitness trainers and advocates to provide activity programs in the areas that need them most,” Jon Lugbill, executive director of Sports Backers, said. “We are excited to continue growing this program and building a team of Fitness Warriors to bring active living opportunities to every corner of our community.”
The program is part of the Sports Backers’ ‘Keep It Moving’ initiative.
