Member News

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.

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.

Houston Fitness Partners proudly partnered with Boys & Girls Club of Greater Houston and Boys & Girls Clubs of America on April 11 to host Judgement Free™ Fit Day.  The ‘high-energy, low-pressure’ event brought youth from around the city together to participate in a plethora of fitness-related activities.

Plenty of locals volunteered their time, including local Planet Fitness^® trainers and Rice University running back and local NIL athlete D’Andre Hardeman Jr. After seeing the turnout and success of the event and partnership, the City of Houston officially declared April 11 “Judgement Free™ Fit Day” across the city.

“We were also incredibly honored to have the City of Houston recognize the day with an official proclamation and to have D’Andre Hardeman Jr. join us to motivate and inspire participants,” said Kate Klein, Houston Fitness Partners executive vice president of marketing.

Planet Fitness trainers in attendance led sessions entailing cardio, strength, agility, recovery, flexibility and balance. The day focused on getting active and moving around, building confidence and bringing the community together. Hardeman gave motivational speeches, helped facilitate drills and was an inspirational figure for the kids in attendance.

“Had a great time at the Judgement Free™ Fit Day in Houston – getting to train with youth from across Houston, share a few tips and just remind them what they’re capable of,” said Hardeman via Instagram. “It’s not just about getting stronger physically, it’s about building confidence, discipline and taking care of your mental health too.”

Events such as this are important to give back to the local community as well as give the next generation a solid foundation to succeed. The collegiate running back believes this event had that exact energy.

“From the moment you arrived, you could really feel the energy. Everybody’s moving, encouraging each other [and] just having fun with it,” said Hardeman. “That’s what makes this [Judgement Free™ Fit Day] so special. It’s a judgement free space where you can show up as yourself and show out.”

Judgement Free Fit Day is part of the Judgement Free Generation^®, Planet’s ongoing partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs to support the physical, social and emotional well-being of young people and help build stronger, kinder communities.