BeaverFit and MADabolic push boundaries with custom training solution
“Partnering with BeaverFit just may be the most significant thing we’ve done since inception,” said Brandon Cullen, co-founder and chief concept officer of MADabolic. The BeaverFit and MADabolic partnership drove the recent creation of the BeaverFit Bay Unit, a custom training solution that will create more functional training space, provide a higher end aesthetic, save square footage and, by extension, hundreds of thousands of dollars in future real estate costs. Solving an operational capacity issue MADabolic’s strength-driven interval training franchise approached BeaverFit looking to increase operational capacity – facing the problem of rising commercial real estate costs, they wanted to buy back square footage while maintaining the structure of their workouts and the equipment needed. “BeaverFit solved that for us,” Cullen said. “I’m blown away with the custom solutions that these guys provided us. They are legitimate problem solvers.” “The unique thing we bring to our partners is the ability and flexibility to bring their brand to life,” said CJ Kostranchuk, director of sales, BeaverFit. This is evident in the striking teal color of the BeaverFit x MADabolic units, which brings the MADabolic brand aesthetic to life in any space. Kostranchuk said MADabolic had “great visions they wanted to push the boundaries of the franchise world with” but nothing existed that met their needs. So, after specific discussions around what MADabolic needed in terms of space, design and functionality, BeaverFit created it. The Functional Bay Unit combines multiple functional training modalities and storage in a single training station, maximizing storage and exercise capability in a minimum footprint. One of the greatest advantages is the savings, Cullen explained. “To date, we’ve seen our footprint shrink by anywhere from 300 to 600 square feet. If you do some basic math. . . you’re looking at hundreds of thousands of dollars at the end of a 10-year lease. Now that I look at it this way, I don’t know why we didn’t do it earlier.” Additionally, the modular design of the bay units allows MADabolic to grow with the equipment. As they bring new elements into their programming, they’ll be able to add attachments to the Bay Units due to the way they were built. Team First approach BeaverFit USA Co-Founder Michael Taylor said from the beginning, both teams were all in. “As partners, we got ‘naked’,” he said. “MADabolic shared their exact requirements of what we needed to do so that we could truly solve the problem together as partners instead of with a wall between us.” Part of that included inviting MADabolic out to the BeaverFit USA headquarters in Reno, Nevada. “To see the sheer mass of that operation – it blew me away,” Cullen said. But as cool as all the laser cutting, painting and welding operations were, what really impressed him was the team. “BeaverFit is the absolute best team I have worked with in the fitness industry,” he said. Kostranchuk explained that teamwork is a core value at BeaverFit, both internally and with partners. The BeaverFit leadership team embraces a Team First approach, valuing people as their first and foremost priority. “One of the things we are always looking for is a partner who is able to push the boundaries – with their franchise, with their training, just in general – same thing that we do internally with bringing new products to life and to the market,” Kostranchuk said. The first MADabolic location to receive the BeaverFit Bay Units is in Austin, Texas, with dozens more scheduled to be installed later in 2023. “What’s great about this is we invested a lot of time and energy in the beginning of this design process to get it right – and now we’ll produce it at scale to support the growing franchise,” Taylor said. The Bay Unit joins the new BeaverFit Functional Training line, solutions designed specifically to fit any training space indoors or outdoors while providing multiple training modalities. With customizable branding, colors, storage and functionality, this line enables maximum storage and exercise capability. MADabolic currently has 27 locations open, and another 79 in development, putting their total unit count at 106. With the operational capacity problem solved, there’s nothing standing in the way of their ongoing, explosive growth. “We like to work with great people, and in my whole professional career I don’t know if I’ve ever met a team like BeaverFit that is willing to provide custom solutions, that is willing to listen and to actually build out exactly what you need… even if it didn’t exist before you brought the idea to them,” Cullen said.
UCSD, Clemson expand campus rec offerings with BeaverFit
The University of California San Diego is the latest college campus to get Dam Strong with the addition of a BeaverFit Performance Locker to their outdoor fitness space. Just several months prior, Clemson University expanded their own campus recreation offerings with the purchase of a Beyond Trailer. These two schools join dozens more who have upgraded their programming with innovative outdoor and mobile solutions by BeaverFit. “We continue to see colleges, universities and even high schools lead the way with outdoor fitness, as they seem to really grasp the value it provides to their students, faculty and community,” said Nick Vay, VP of commercial sales at BeaverFit. “Not only does it solve a common problem – growing student populations but limited and often aging recreation space – but it brings students together and forms connections, having an impact on their health and wellbeing.” Clemson University Beyond Trailer Benefits of campus recreation According to a report compiled by NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation, student participation in campus recreation activities is linked to: + Higher grade point averages than nonparticipants + Favoring a healthy lifestyle after college + Greater benefits to overall wellness including physical/psychosocial health and learning outcomes Additionally, campus recreation programming has a positive impact on student retention. University of San Diego: Performance Locker UCSD found BeaverFit through Advanced Exercise, commercial fitness facility provider and trusted distributor for BeaverFit, while searching for a weatherproof integrated storage solution and rustproof squat racks able to withstand the outdoor elements, especially for a campus that is just miles from the ocean. “What we found in the Performance Locker checked all the boxes,” said Alexia Cervantes, associate director of recreation, fitness and wellness at UCSD. “The ability to customize the color and add our logo was another big factor in choosing BeaverFit.” UCSD Performance Locker The solution for UCSD includes a 20’ Performance Locker with custom rigging on three sides providing the ability for both standard strength training and functional training. The Locker features a roll-up door for easy and secure access to equipment stored inside. The custom rigging creates dedicated spaces for squats, bench press, pull-ups, dips and more. “The Performance Locker meets our storage and training needs and looks amazing. People are drawn to it. Our usage at the Triton Fit Park has increased since installing it,” Cervantes said. Previous Next “If you are considering developing or refurbishing an outdoor fitness space, I recommend you consider BeaverFit. They have many customizable solutions and a great team of dedicated professionals.” Alexia Cervantes Associate Director, Recreation, Fitness and Wellness, UCSD Clemson University: Beyond Trailer Clemson University opted for a mobile solution, the Beyond Trailer, to meet students wherever they are on campus. The Beyond Trailer “gave us an outlet to provide fun fitness programming across our community, complementing our efforts to engage students in diverse ways,” said Kelly Bardusk, director of external relations for Clemson University Campus Recreation. “We can go to them and provide them an opportunity to learn and connect,” added Tabitha Cooper, wellbeing coordinator. “Our focus is to increase and improve the wellbeing on our campus. Here, we pair the outdoors with physical activity.” Previous Next The Beyond Trailer 12’ trains 30+ individuals at once with fold-out strength racks, adjustable pull-up bars and roll-up doors for easy equipment access. Superior weatherproofing including hot-dip galvanized racks and powder coating means the Beyond Trailer may be used outdoors in any element. “The quality of the product, the support and resources that are included with the purchase, and the overall excitement around being active and outdoors is amazing.” Tabitha Cooper Wellbeing Coordinator, Clemson University Campus Recreation “Whether it’s one of our Performance Lockers, Shred Sheds or Beyond Trailers, we really value and love the work we get to do with campus rec programs,” Vay said. “It’s ultimately about getting more people healthy, moving and outdoors, and by working with schools to expand and bring their fitness offerings outside, or on the road, we can help them bring these visions to life.” Looking to expand your offerings into the outdoors? Check out our most popular outdoor solutions.
6 benefits of outdoor training
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve seen BeaverFit outdoor training solutions while doomscrolling social media. Or maybe your military unit keeps pressing you to use the new container gym they purchased and installed outside the headquarters. But why the movement toward outdoor training – is it really worth it? Short answer: Yes. Keep reading for the many dam(n) reasons why. Previous Next 1. MOOD BOOST Outdoor training acts as a natural antidepressant. Exercising in nature, or ‘green exercise,’ has been shown to reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. With nature increasing serotonin and exercise producing endorphins, you’ll get a double dose of feeling good. Why go for a single when you can get a double for the same cost? 2. INCREASED VITAMIN D When you exercise outdoors, your body absorbs vitamin D from the sun. Vitamin D is important for bone health, immune system function, mood and energy regulation. Spending even a short time in the sun can provide the body with all the vitamin D it needs for the day. Just remember to use protection – sun protection, that is. 3. FRESH AIR When flus and viruses are floating around, indoor gyms become breeding grounds for illness. Let’s face it: no one wants to train next to a guy who’s coughing and sneezing like he just ran a marathon through a pollen-filled field. That’s why outdoor fitness is a no-brainer when it comes to avoiding germs and enjoying fresh air. 4. STRONGER EYES Outdoor thighs, stronger eyes… or something like that. More time outdoors can improve eye health. Bright sunlight forces your eyes to “flex their muscles” and release dopamine – believed to block excessive eye growth – and serotonin – which regulates our sleep-wake cycle, ensuring eye rest and recovery. And while your eye muscles may not look as impressive as your quad muscles, they’ll prove their worth in the long run. 5. MORE SPACE, MORE OPPORTUNITIES Compared to awkwardly cramped indoor gyms, outdoor fitness allows you to take up the space you need and move freely. This not only provides more room for accessories and equipment, but opens up opportunities for unique and fun cardio drills that combine with strength work when training equipment is placed near open fields, hills, or beaches with sand. Yes, we just used ‘fun’ and ‘cardio’ in the same sentence. 6. CHALLENGE + REWARD Outdoor training is fitness with an extra shot of espresso. It’s invigorating and energizing, helping you feel more motivated to stick to your routine and continue making progress towards your goals. Whether it’s braving the elements on an exceptionally hot or cold day or powering through imperfect conditions, outdoor training will test your stamina and leave you feeling like a certified badass. If you’re interested in expanding your training space to the outdoors, we can help. From storage and shelters to equipment and accessories, BeaverFit can outfit you with an American-made, weatherproof solution specific to your training needs, space and budget. Check out our most popular outdoor training solutions at: https://beaverfit.com.au/outdoors/ Training outdoors this month? Be sure to tag us on Instagram for a chance to win a free t-shirt during our Get #DamStrong Outdoors campaign. Previous Next
BeaverFit ignites a ‘SPRC’ with first US Army Soldier Performance Readiness Center
As Australia boosts defence capabilities, there’s a critical need for modern training solutions designed to ensure the Australian Defence Force is combat-ready. With over $30 billion allocated to strengthening northern bases over the next decade, procurement of state-of-the-art fitness solutions will be essential to support the objectives outlined in the defence plans. BeaverFit, the largest supplier of fitness and training solutions to U.S. and NATO militaries, offers a range of portable, semi-permanent, durable solutions that can be set up quickly and relocated if necessary. The article below showcases how BeaverFit supported the U.S. Army in converting an underutilised storage facility into a Soldier Performance Readiness Center designed for optimal human performance. Contact us to learn more about bringing these proven capabilities to Australia. FORT JACKSON, South Carolina — A brand new Soldier Performance Readiness Center built by BeaverFit opened here March 24. The SPRC is the first of its kind for the U.S. Army Center for Initial Military Training. Around the same time, a shipment of more than 100 BeaverFit container gyms made their way across the country to various training schools and units, purchased by the U.S. Army CIMT. Previous Next “One of the Army’s main focus areas is H2F – or Holistic Health and Fitness,” said Bryan Studebaker, senior vice president of government programs at BeaverFit. “To that end, they are heavily investing in equipment and infrastructure that support this objective.” The cultural shift to H2F aims to improve Soldier and unit readiness by addressing five domains of readiness: physical, mental, spiritual, nutrition and sleep. To operationalize these domains, BeaverFit was recently awarded a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research contract to supply a variety of equipment and infrastructure in direct support of H2F. To date, BeaverFit has provided the Army solutions ranging from manufacturing more than 23,000 lanes of Army Combat Fitness Test equipment; supplying 2,000 expeditionary container gyms; converting indoor and outdoor spaces to provide designated areas for physical training, classroom education, rehabilitation and cognitive performance; and now – the CIMT’s first Soldier Performance Readiness Center. U.S. Army photos by 165th Infantry Brigade The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. A cultural shift The SPRC “represents a seismic shift” towards how the Army approaches how troops are trained, evaluated and sustained, said Brig. Gen. Jason E. Kelly, Fort Jackson’s commander. “It is an investment in individual Soldier preparedness.” The SPRC also helps overcome resource challenges Army units might face when developing an effective program to support the individual Soldier, because it acts as the centerpoint in which all activities are enabled. In simpler words, the SPRC provides the environment for the H2F ecosystem to thrive. Studebaker, a United States Air Force veteran himself, said BeaverFit is proud to stand behind this mission. “As a veteran owned and operated company, we see the opportunity to serve the military as a continuation of our duty to country,” he said. “We’re going to continue prioritizing solutions that support the growing needs and requirements of our military.” U.S. Army photos by Fort Jackson Public Affairs The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. Designing the Soldier Performance Readiness Center The SPRC project at Fort Jackson converted an unused facility into training space with two 50-foot modular rigs, a robust equipment package with an emphasis on team-based conditioning, rubber flooring for strength and conditioning, performance turf, a rope climb tower, sleds, yokes, weighted stretchers, BeaverFit squad logs and full complement of various low-impact cardio machines. Sam Hovig, BeaverFit government territory sales manager and United States Marine Corps veteran, said the SPRC introduces new recruits to H2F early in their careers and enables critical skill development they will carry throughout their time in the Army. “The Army has implemented H2F within FORSCOM at the operational units, and with this new training capability, recruits will have the positive impact of H2F early on and will build upon that as they get to their permanent duty stations,” he said. “What made this project unique was being very cognizant of the population that will be using it,” he explained. “The typical recruit likely does not have significant time under a barbell or proper coaching on foundational movement mechanics. This heavily influenced each portion of the facility design – from the modular rig to where recruits would be entering and exiting the facility – to ensure this space met the stated throughput needs, allowed for visibility from coaches at all times, and did not sacrifice any required training capabilities.” Previous Next Expanded options for H2F The container gyms for CIMT were purchased to outfit units with an expanded outdoor training solution beyond the available indoor space at their installation. The gym-in-a-boxes, as the Army knows them, may be placed directly beside unit headquarters or barracks, enabling easier access to training, camaraderie and esprit de corps. Army senior leaders have said the cost that goes along with H2F is “well worth the investment,” said Maj. Gen. John D. Kline, CIMT commander. “I will tell you that if we save a life (or) we save two lives, one would argue this is absolutely worth every penny.” Previous Next BeaverFit is the leading supplier of fitness equipment to the U.S. Armed Forces, from the original container gym solution to full-scale human performance and tactical training facilities. As an official provider of ACFT equipment, BeaverFit has supplied more than 23,000 lanes of equipment and developed innovative ACFT solutions to include the ACFT Storage Locker, the ACFT Storage Trailer and ACFT Shelters.
BeaverFit converts tennis court to custom outdoor training space for US Army South
As Australia boosts defence capabilities, there’s a critical need for modern training solutions designed to ensure the Australian Defence Force is combat-ready. With over $30 billion allocated to strengthening northern bases over the next decade, procurement of state-of-the-art fitness solutions will be essential to support the objectives outlined in the defence plans. BeaverFit, the largest supplier of fitness and training solutions to U.S. and NATO militaries, offers a range of portable, semi-permanent, durable solutions that can be set up quickly and relocated if necessary. The article below showcases how BeaverFit supported the U.S. Army with a turf training field and all-weather shelter. Contact us to learn more about bringing these proven capabilities to Australia. SAN ANTONIO – Outdoor training is about to get a lot more exciting for Soldiers attached to U.S. Army South at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston. Upon receiving a request to convert an old, unused tennis court at the installation, BeaverFit designed a solution resulting in a 100 x 110-foot SunPro shelter that will support multiple battalions within ARSOUTH. The BeaverFit SunPro is an open-ended structure which provides protection from the elements, increasing both the number of workout days for those who train there and the longevity of equipment. The shelter is a fully customized, purpose-built facility designed specifically to enable unit training and Army Combat Fitness Test activities. The project’s first phase included resurfacing the tennis court, filling in and repairing all uneven surfaces. Once the surface was ready, the SunPro went up. More than 10,000 square feet of turf was installed next, including 12 lanes for conducting the ACFT. The professional grade performance turf provides a consistent and standard testing environment resulting in valid and accurate test results. Additionally, rubber flooring was installed around two 40′ BeaverFit Performance Lockers featuring custom rigging, providing training space for strength and conditioning. In the project’s second phase, BeaverFit added two 10′ Performance Lockers for storage and a driveway to gain access to the lockers. A fence with door code access, a gutter system with drainage connecting to the existing stormwater system, and mesh sun shades on two sides were also added. As with any custom build, BeaverFit begins by listening to the unique scope and fitness requirements of the requester. A team of product managers, design engineers and fabricators work together to create equipment solutions that are manufactured in the U.S. and designed to perform in the toughest training environments. BeaverFit provides overall project scoping, design, kitting and ongoing project management. Dedicated teams guide a project from the initiating and planning phases all the way through to execution and closing phases. BeaverFit is the leading supplier of human performance and tactical training solutions to support the success of the Human Weapon System. Veteran owned and operated, BeaverFit provides solutions that meet the requirements and needs of military units in any environment. From the original container gym solution to full-scale human performance and tactical training facilities, BeaverFit is the trusted partner in creating solutions to support the growing needs and requirements of our military.
6 tips when converting unused indoor space for fitness
Whether you own a gym and want to expand it, or you’re an entrepreneur looking to create a fitness space, converting unused indoor space for fitness is a challenging but worthwhile venture. While you might be wondering what advice BeaverFit – leaders in the outdoor fitness industry – can provide about indoor space, our team of subject matter experts have successfully converted indoor fitness spaces in the military, commercial and entrepreneurial realms, and are here to share the tips on transforming unused spaces into high performance training centers. Here are six things to consider when converting your space, according to Jason Clark, Training & Education at BeaverFit: 1. What is your defined outcome? Although it may seem obvious, many people convert space without truly defining an outcome. You may equate more space with doing more things, but defining what exactly you’re going to do with that space is key. Don’t rely on the “If you build it, they will come” mentality. “Just because you build it, doesn’t mean they’re going to come,” Clark said. “What are they coming for – do you need to build more of that? Or what are they not coming for because you haven’t built it yet? Are you missing something, or do you need more of something that’s doing well?” Throughput and output tend to be universal objectives – throughput being how you can safely and effectively maximize the number of people using the space during training hours; and output being how you can ensure everyone gets a great workout towards achieving their goals. 2. Do you fully understand your budget? You should have a tiered approach to your defined outcome. Understanding your budget helps define the tiers. A big conversion may include flooring, racks, rigs and accessories. You’ll likely need to start with flooring, which will consume a large part of your budget in the first tier. Do market research on the costs of specific items – all rubber flooring versus rubber with a strip of turf, turf with or without a logo, and so on. Small changes can mean big savings. “If you are converting space, it probably means you are visionary, and a large part of your focus is your vision,” Clark said. “That can go deep down the hole when you have a lot of time invested, drawings and renderings done, but you haven’t checked how much things cost. Getting a hold of that early is smart.” 3. What is your layout? Your outcome and your budget will define your layout. How do you see this happening? Is more floor space what you need, or do you need to get smart with storage? Defining your layout should have a high-level thought process and more than one course of action. You may think you need additional space for storage, when you actually have a stanchion in the middle of the floor that could be turned into barbell storage or have trays pushed up against it to hold kettlebells or medicine balls. The layout takes time and more than one set of eyes to make sure you’re capturing everything. 4. Are you accounting for your target audience in your setup and accessories? Make sure you’re accounting for the population in your defined outcome. If your defined outcome is a facility that promotes body transformation and getting people into fitness, you might attract people who are brand new to fitness. Do you have methods, accessories and space to teach? If someone is not ready to squat with a barbell on their back yet, do you have modified options? “When someone walks in your gym, what is their impression of your space?” Clark prompted. “There’s a big difference between, ‘Holy cow, I’m not ready for this!’ or ‘Wow, I see things that I don’t understand how to use, but they’re not scary.’” It’s great to have rigs, racks and an awesome set-up, but you should be mindful of the people who are coming in for the first time, and ensure your space and accessories will accommodate. 5. Do you have an operations plan during the conversion? If you already have existing space, you’ll need to be mindful of what the conversion is going to do to your members. When your space becomes a construction zone, how is the rest of your club going to operate? Are construction materials and vehicles going to damage any existing walls or floors, or get in the way of your members’ routines? Your outcome may be to add new members, but you may lose existing members depending on how you care for them during the design and build of your new space. “Just because you’ve got a new thing doesn’t mean it’s new for them yet, and they need to be able to continue their routine,” Clark said. 6. Should you hire a professional? You may believe you have the skillset to DIY your entire indoor conversion – and perhaps you do! – but you might run into problems without hiring a professional. “A professional viewpoint produces professional outcomes,” Clark said. “We do this for a living, which means it’s going to be done right, and it’s going to be done well. We’re not going to allow your vision to die; we’re going to pump oxygen into it through helping you figure out a couple of the pieces you may not be accounting for.” At BeaverFit, our eyes have seen it and our hands have built it. We offer what has worked well in other places while being focused on what you have to make sure we’re giving you the best possible solution. In short, we’re the team you call when you need the job done and you need it done well. No place is too small if it moves you to a better position than where you currently are. We can help. And if at any point you want to extend your offerings into the outdoor space, you know we’ve got you covered there as well. Get in
BeaverFit supports Hurricane Ian recovery teams with mobile training
FORT MYERS BEACH, Florida – When an incident commander reached out to see if a portable gym could be provided for first responders assisting with recovery efforts in the town of Fort Myers Beach, BeaverFit answered the call. After Hurricane Ian ravaged the town in September 2022, incident management teams belonging to the Federal Emergency Management Agency were deployed and set up camp to begin the ongoing recovery process. Working long days and nights, many away from home and their families, firefighters and contractors had an additional obstacle to tackle – the hurricane destroyed the two local fire stations, leaving no place for physical training. “I saw a need for the first responders, the contractors, and the people who had been through a disaster,” said Scott D’Angelo, incident commander for the Hurricane Ian recovery process in Fort Myers Beach. “I saw a need to workout, because that helps with stress, fatigue and establishing a normal routine.” As a retired firefighter himself, D’Angelo said he viewed this as an opportunity to give back to the community of first responders. He knew about BeaverFit because of previous support to the firefighting community, but he was shocked when they actually approved his request. “The island is completely destroyed. We have a command post set up with local, state, federal and fire rescue personnel. Could BeaverFit donate a portable gym so some of the members living in our camp can get a workout in? We are working 12-18 hour days and this would help a lot of people out,” D’Angelo’s request read. When the request reached Nick Vay, vice president of commercial sales at BeaverFit, he was excited about the prospect of supporting the mission. In an effort to find the quickest and most efficient way to support the request, Vay proposed the Beyond Trailer 12′ – a “gym on wheels” that provides an innovative mobile training solution combining training rigs and equipment storage. One week later, BeaverFit shipped a trailer from Nevada to Florida for a 90-day lease at no cost. “When we received the original request, we immediately went into action to figure out how we could assist, and quickly, as time was of the essence,” Vay said. “We obviously do quite a bit of work in this community, so it was super important to our team to step up and support all the great things they’re doing down there.” Featuring two folding strength racks that can be set-up by a single user in a few minutes with no tools required, the 12-foot Beyond Trailer creates a fully mobile training center for up to 30 people. The Beyond Trailer unit was also fully stocked with Grey Man Gear equipment and accessories, providing barbells, bumper plates, medicine balls, kettlebells and more for the first responders to use during their group workouts. “The people who used it enjoyed it,” D’Angelo said of the trailer. “It’s a huge hit with this population. It’s like candy – everybody who sees it wants it.”