Julia Sanders

Love Is in the Air at DJD Fitness PF Club

Planet Fitness® has a way of both helping people reach their fitness goals and bringing people together. In Nazareth, Pennsylvania, Planet Fitness also helped two lovebirds find love.

Club Manager at a DJD Fitness club in Nazareth Jesse Hester met Karissa Frey-Woroniak while they worked together inside the gym over seven years ago. They worked together for several years as member service representatives. Hester was promoted to club manager in late 2021, and now, Karissa is a lab scientist at St. Luke’s.

Fast forward to today, the relationship had strengthened and was ready to take the next step. Jesse worked with the DJD Fitness ownership team to propose to his girlfriend where their love story began – in the Planet Fitness gym in Nazareth. After a heart-warming moment, she said yes to the proposal.

“Planet Fitness brought us together and will always hold a special place in our hearts,” said Hester.

The sweet story highlights how gyms can build a strong community and bring people together in a meaningful way. Despite no longer working together, the couple still exercise together in the same Planet Fitness club where they first met.

“It’s a beautiful reminder of the genuine community our clubs can foster – not just among members, but among the dedicated team members who show up every day. I’m incredibly proud of Jesse and the culture he has built at our Nazareth location,” said DJD franchisee Milan Dalsania.

in Recognitions  by 15 Jul 2026

United Fitness Partners Helps Runners Chase Personal Records with Annual 5K Race

Running is great exercise, and participating in races is a great way to push yourself and support local charity causes. United Fitness Partners partnered with Sporting Kansas City soccer team’s charitable arm, the Victory Project, to host the Victory Run x Planet Fitness® race. UFP are proud partners of Sporting KC, the Major League Soccer team based in Kansas City, and the race helped strengthen the partnership.

On May 9, more than 200 runners took part in the race in Kansas City, Kansas. The event featured a 5K for adults and a 100-yard Kids Dash, making it accessible for participants of all ages. Runners received a medal, T-shirt and custom bib. The course included a scenic route through the iconic Kansas Speedway, giving participants the thrill of racing down the track.

While runners were crushing their fitness goals, they were also able to help a great cause. All the race funds went to support the Victory Project, an organization that supports kids with cancer and creates more inclusive opportunities through soccer for youth with disabilities and limited financial resources. United Fitness Partners was a big part in putting together the race and helping runners have the best experience, while raising money for a great cause.

“We were proud to bring back the Victory Run and host it at Sporting Park in partnership with Sporting KC and the Victory Project. This event was not only a fun 5K, but we were able to raise valuable dollars for an important cause in the community. We can’t wait to do this again next year,” said Field Marketing Manager at United Fitness Partners Chelsea Halker.

in Member News  by 14 Jul 2026

Taymax Group Helps Keep Georgia Firefighters Fit with Gym Equipment Donation

First responders are the backbone of any small community, putting their lives on the line daily to keep the community safe. On March 12, Taymax Group gave back to the community with a donation to the Tifton Fire Department. Located in Georgia, this donation was the first time Taymax and the local fire department have worked together.

“We’re very excited about the re-equip and truly grateful for the opportunity to donate the equipment to the local fire department,” said Leti Aroche, area director, Florida/Georgia at Taymax Group.

The re-equip consisted of a plethora of cardio equipment. Taymax donated three treadmills, three ellipticals, a recumbent bike, an upright bike, a row machine and two stairmills. The fitness equipment came from Taymax’s lone club in Tifton.

“Supporting local firehouses is one of the many ways we show our appreciation for their dedication and ensure they have the resources they need,” said Kelly Fleming, chief of staff at Taymax Group. “It reflects our commitment to community partnerships, service and giving back to the communities we serve.”

Employees from the Tifton Planet Fitness® teamed up with the local firefighters to help install the equipment at the firehouse. The delivery and installation showcased the importance of teamwork to make sure these donations are successful.

“We value the relationships that our club teams have with our local community partners,” Fleming said. “Our club teams are excited by the opportunity to be part of these donations, and all team members onsite for the re-equip were honored to be part of this donation.”

The re-equip installation transformed the Tifton firehouse into a brand-new fitness club. Tifton firefighters now have the ability to stay fit and better serve their community. This donation aims to build an ongoing relationship with the Tifton Fire Department and adds to Taymax’s continued mission to give back to the local community.

in Member News  by 14 Jul 2026