F3 Cherokee is a network of free, peer-led workouts for men. Our mission is to plant, grow and serve small workout groups for men, for the invigoration of male community leadership. And, you’re invited to join. By the way, we’ve heard ALL the excuses.
It’s too early.
You’re right! 5:30-6:15 a.m. is pretty early. But, you know what? Moving that big heavy rock out of your way first will make every other challenge in your day a cinch.
I need to get in shape first.
Guess what, a lot of us were out of shape when we first showed up. You might be the “six” for your first few times, but we never leave the six behind. Never.
Bootcamp workouts aren’t for me.
Good news! We have trail runs, 0.0 workouts (no running), strength-based workouts (kettlebells, sandbags), rucking, and even a group of guys playing competitive ultimate frisbee. The bootcamps are pretty amazing, too.
I won’t know anyone there.
Get over it! You will be welcomed with open (and very sweaty) arms. Groups are small by design. You will laugh, and you might even cry, but we bet you’ll come back for more.
Is this the place that gives out weird nicknames?
Yep! Just think how fun it will be when you’re in Publix and some dude’s kids are like “Hey, Mr. Tiny Tat!” Or, when you’re leaving church and Smurfette gives you a fist bump, and you chitchat about headlamps and new running gear. Let’s be honest, everyone loves a nickname. Just ask TitleMax, Quagmire and Rat Tail!
F3 is growing, because it fills a need, so to say that F3 Cherokee has exploded in popularity is an understatement. In 2017, a small group of men planted the first shovel flag in the parking lot of Creekview High School. Over the next year, we expanded to Veterans Park, Sequoyah High School, and downtown Woodstock. Now, with 1,000 men, 50 workouts, and 25 different locations around the county, we might just be onto something special.
I think I can speak for all of us who have been around since the beginning: F3 has changed our lives for the better. What used to be small talk with other guys at the gym or on the sidelines, has turned into amazing friendships. When another man goes through one of life’s storms, these guys will stop what they are doing and run to your side. When there is a service project, charitable opportunity, or just moving that couch up the stairs, these are the guys that answer that call. They make you stronger, and they make you better. So you can be a better husband, father or friend.
Consider yourself invited! Visit www.f3cherokee.com for more information.
– By Mark “Manning” Harrington
Women Supporting Women Through Fitness
FiA, short for Females In Action, is bringing smiles to the faces of women across Canton and Woodstock. Plain and simple, FiA is a free fitness group for women. But, it is more than just a workout.
FiA is a community of women that supports each other in all aspects of life. FiA participates in community events and philanthropy, and hosts socials and children’s events. FiA even offers a Bible study. Most important, it offers friendship. But, it all starts with the workout.
FiA locations have grown to 15 states and more than 6,000 women participants. FiA Cherokee launched three years ago with one weekly workout at one location. Today, it has grown to 22 different workouts offered every day of the week at 12 different locations.
“I had known about FiA for a while through my brother and sister who live in different states. So, when a friend told me there was one in my own city with a location right outside my subdivision, I just knew I had to try it out,” said FiA member nicknamed Falls.
FiA Cherokee offers free bootcamp style workouts, run groups, ruck groups, terrain race teams, and even yoga every now and then. With more than 300 participants and peer-led instruction, there is something for everyone. There is no judgment ever, on any level. FiA is here to support, encourage, and challenge you to step out of your comfort zone from time to time. We are not professionals; we are women of all fitness levels taking turns leading a workout.
“From socials, to terrain races, to early morning beat-downs – these are my people and I love them! FiA gives me a place to fit in while also inspiring me to be the best version of myself!” said FiA member nicknamed Valor.
The workouts are outside in the rain or shine, hot or cold, and always fun. All you need is a yoga mat and some small hand weights. The hardest part is showing up for the first time. Every new person is welcomed with a smile and nickname. That’s right. Each participant receives a nickname at the end of their first workout, which officially initiates them into the FiA sisterhood.
Women often put themselves last on the priority list, putting the needs of their families and careers before their own health and wellness. FiA typically meets early in the morning, before the sun rises, and gives women the opportunity to invest in themselves before the demands of their day pull them in different directions. (Don’t worry, we also have mid-morning and evening workouts for ladies who just don’t do 5:30 a.m.) We often hear from new participants that FiA was the one thing missing from their lives that they never even knew they needed.
“I’ve found something that I enjoy being a part of, and found lifetime friends,” Straight Shooter said.
If you are looking for something new and exciting, and enjoy fitness and fellowship, we encourage you to give FiA a try. It is free, so you have absolutely nothing to lose. We would love to meet you! Visit our website for workout locations and times. www.fiacherokee.com.
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