CrossFit For Glory Hosts Grand Opening

The area's newest fitness center celebrated its grand opening Dec. 3.

CrossFit For Glory, a 2,400-square-foot fitness facility, is located at 7017 Lithia-Pinecrest Rd., Lithia.

CrossFit challenges its members by using barbells, kettlebells, gymnastics, medicine balls, plyometrics, running and Olympic lifts to get athletes in peak physical shape.

Far from being exclusive to elite athletes, CrossFit For Glory trains all members, no matter the skill or fitness level, to become as fit as possible, using tested means of general physical preparedness.

Owner and trainer Josh Martin received his degree in exercise and sports science from the University of Florida in 2006. He completed an internship with the International Performance Institute (IPI) in Bradenton, and also worked as a strength and conditioning coach for the New York Yankees.

In 2009, Martin began training with a local CrossFit affiliate. He said he was amazed at how the programming of CrossFit meshed together so many
movements and fundamentals he found beneficial for his athletes and himself. In addition, Martin said he appreciates the sense of community within CrossFit, and how each member motivates and supports one another.

This reactivated his passion for training and coaching and, in 2011, he became a certified crossFit trainer.

"I wanted to open a CrossFit affiliate to change peoples’ lives and positively affect the surrounding community," said Martin. "I want to help create the stories of people quitting their diabetes medications, overcoming injuries, and pass along the passion for training I have recaptured. In short, I want to help fuel a revolution in health and fitness across the world, but it will start in the small local box of our community!"

Martin, who held his grand opening last weekend, said the reception from the community has been great.

"We had a great crowd at the grand opening and people seemed really responsive to what we're trying to do," said Martin.

Classes are held from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and at 10 a.m. Saturday. Class rates range from $7.25 to $12.95, however, there are various packages available.

For information, visit the website or call 813-624-2915.