Battlegrounds Fitness: Five Years of Empowering Front Royal’s Fitness Journey

Niki Foster, Executive Director of the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, and Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell celebrated the fifth anniversary of Battlegrounds Fitness with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Joseph McFadden and Rocky Medina co-founded Battlegrounds Fitness in memory of their friend, Marine Staff Sgt. David H. Stewart, who died during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2014. Their vision was to create more than just a gym but a place where community members could gain the fitness skills and knowledge needed for healthier lives.

Niki Foster began the ceremony by expressing her excitement about Battlegrounds Fitness reaching this milestone. “We’re so happy to have Battlegrounds Fitness as a member of our community,” she said before inviting Mayor Cockrell to speak.

Mayor Cockrell highlighted the dedication required to keep a business thriving for five years. “This is not just about opening a business; it’s about hard work and commitment. We hope you’re here for another 50 years,” she said, emphasizing the bond she shares with Joe McFadden from their time on the town council.

Joe McFadden took the opportunity to thank those who supported the gym over the years, especially his and Rocky’s families. “I’d like to thank my wife, Rocky, Rocky’s wife, Celia, and all our kids for the hours they didn’t see us at home,” he said. Rocky Medina echoed these sentiments, recalling the phrase they often used during the gym’s construction: “Think about where we’ll be next year, and now, here we are five years later.”

Battlegrounds Fitness has integrated itself deeply into the Front Royal community. “Our goal was always to be part of the community and embedded in everything Front Royal does,” McFadden explained. The gym offers programs catering to various ages and fitness levels, from kids’ programs and birthday parties to sessions for seniors. “Our oldest member is my father, who is 84,” McFadden noted proudly.

The facility boasts diverse fitness options, including a climbing wall, an American Ninja Warrior program, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. “We want this building to be a place where anyone can find something that motivates them to achieve their fitness goals,” said Medina.

Both founders emphasize the importance of personalizing fitness. “We believe in a prescriptive model where we align you with what works best for you,” McFadden explained. This approach ensures that fitness is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their starting point.

Medina, who has completed a half Ironman and various marathons, shared his commitment to lifelong fitness. “I want to be active all my life,” he said, mentioning his participation in community events like Ride With Rotary. McFadden, a father of seven, also emphasized the importance of staying fit to enjoy quality time with his children as they grow.

As Battlegrounds Fitness looks to the future, the founders are optimistic about continuing their mission. “We hope to be here for another 10-15 years, hopefully longer,” McFadden said. The gym’s success over the past five years is a testament to their dedication and the support of the Front Royal community.

The celebration marked an anniversary and a community, health, and perseverance milestone.