The 6 Best Treadmills with Fans for 2024, Expert Tested, Expert Approved

Ah, the simple things in life — that first sip of coffee, catching a sunset, a…treadmill fan. While the best treadmills on the market might catch your eye with huge HD touchscreens, cushioned belt decks, or auto-adjusting incline, sometimes a little wind in your hair can be all the boost you need to power through one more mile. With treadmills packing in more and more advanced features these days, it’s easy to overlook a solid fan, but we sure haven’t.

If your training space lacks air conditioning, cranking up your own personal fan can provide some sweet relief. We have pounded the pavement — well, the tread belts — on over 40 machines and identified a wide range of options to help you get started in your search for some cool air. Whether you need a fixed fan with one speed or one that can automatically change speeds as you ratchet up the intensity, we have put together a list of the best treadmills with fans from the leading brands to help make your search a…breeze.

The 6 Best Treadmills with Fans for 2024

Best Overall Treadmill With a Fan: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Best Treadmill With a Fan for Running: Horizon 7.4 AT

Best High-End Treadmill With a Fan: ProForm Pro 9000

Best Budget Treadmill With a Fan: Sole F63

Best Folding Treadmill With a Fan: Echelon Stride-6

Best Treadmill With a Fan Under $1,000: Schwinn 810

About Our Expert: 

This article has been reviewed by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC a certified personal trainer, certified nutrition coach, and CrossFit Level-1 Trainer. She reviewed the research we cite to help ensure we’re providing helpful, accurate descriptions and recommendations.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Treadmills with Fans

The BarBend team of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, CrossFit trainers, and fitness enthusiasts brings years of hands-on experience on over 40 treadmills. Having kept their cool on the best treadmills with fans over countless workouts, as well as having the outdoor running experience to offer context, our expert testers have the insight to make finding your match a breeze.

For each treadmill we test, we lace up our best running shoes, complete multiple workouts, then assign ratings of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) for 13 different categories, including conveniences (like fans), durability, footprint, adjustability, and more.

Comfort

A treadmill’s “conveniences” — fans, speakers, device holders, adjustment buttons or dials, and more — can often make a huge difference in your experience. Having to reach awkwardly to get a sip of water, or crank up the speed can throw off your balance or just be plain annoying. As one of these conveniences, fans can play a big part in your comfort. While most treadmills users could probably share an anecdote about using a fan, research indicates that regulating your body temperature can go beyond simple comfort. (1)

The AutoBreeze fan and console on the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

As your body’s core temperature rises or falls below 98.6 degrees, it uses energy to get back to that mark. While there are myriad ways to externally regulate your body temperature, using a fan during a treadmill workout is one of the simplest. Adding a cool breeze from a treadmill fan can supplement your body’s efforts to regulate your rising temperature during a workout. (1)

Price

As fans on treadmills are pretty common, we wanted to make sure to include a wide variety of prices for our top picks. We offered up treadmills from $899 to $2,299 and, while you’ll see loads of different features, the common thread is their fans. Options closer to $899 may have one fixed fan and 10- to 12-percent incline ranges, the treadmills approaching $2,299 have more technology like HD touchscreens, decline capability, or integration with the best fitness apps.

Technology

With a price range this wide, there will be quite a variety in the technology, like the size of built-in displays, dynamic programming, or Bluetooth connectivity. While a fan could be considered a piece of technology — hello, auto-adjusting fan speed — we generally categorize them as “conveniences,” like a water bottle holder or storage compartments. As you climb up the price range for these treadmills — $899 to $2,299 — the technology becomes more prevalent and advanced. 

BarBend reviews writer Ben Emminger adjusting the incline on the Schwinn 810.

For instance, while pricier machines may be compatible with interactive fitness apps like Sole+ or iFIT, options closer to $899 may include a set of preset workout programs. Just like when you’re deciding between the iPhone Jr. and the iPhone Super Duper, a higher price typically equates to more advanced technology.

Best Overall Treadmill With a Fan: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose. 

Shop NordicTrack

Specs

Price: $2,299

Fan: 1, AutoBreeze

Dimensions: 65” H x 80” L x 38” W

Incline Range: -3%-12%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Weight: 340lbs in-box

Pros

The AutoBreeze fan automatically adjusts its speed based on your workout intensity, so you can focus on your sweat.

Stream over 16,000 interactive iFIT workouts on its 14-inch HD touchscreen.

The -3-percent decline to 15-percent incline range can add intensity and variety to your workouts.

Cons

Its $2,299 price tag may be too high for some people.

The 1750 will gobble up roughly 21 square feet of floor space.

To access iFIT, you’ll need a $39.99 monthly subscription.

Our pick for the best overall treadmill with a fan — the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 — is a beast. Like its auto-adjusting incline and speed levels, the AutoBreeze fan can automatically adjust to match the intensity level of your workout. Whether you set up your own manual workout or stream one of iFIT’s 16,000 options, the -3-percent to 15-percent range lets you take your incline workouts to the next level. These features helped the 1750 to score a rating of 5 out of 5 in eight of our categories, like conveniences, durability, and adjustability.

A BarBend product tester walking on the NordicTrack 1750.

When your workout starts to heat up, the AutoBreeze fan can give you the quick relief you need to hit that last mile. Kate Meier, certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member, rated her overall workout experience on the 1750 a 5 out of 5. “I’m 5-foot, 4-inches, so I wasn’t sure how exactly they would hit me,” she explained. “It was blowing right on my face and neck.” 

Jake Herod, our expert product tester, highlighted the iFIT offering in his video review. “You can obviously do some cardio, but you can even do some strength training or yoga off the machine.” Check out all the 1750 has to offer in his review below.

The roomy 20- by 60-inch belt deck will allow even the tallest runners to comfortably complete speed, hill, or interval training, and with the 14-inch HD touchscreen, you can bring iFIT workouts to life. I used the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 to take on iFIT’s Grand Canyon hiking series and the SmartAdjust incline settings responding to the trail elevation made it a 5 out of 5 for me.

With a footprint of 21.11 square feet, it will occupy about five square feet more than your average two-seater sofa. (2) Meier rated its footprint and portability 3.5 out of 5 and, despite its hydraulic folding, we still wouldn’t recommend it for small spaces. “It’s 340 pounds, so even though it folds up and has wheels, I don’t think I’d want to move it very often,” Meier said.

Read our full NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill With a Fan for Running: Horizon 7.4 AT

Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill is ideal for anyone who likes to stream fitness classes throughout their workout. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, this tread also features 3-zone variable response cushioning and feather-light folding to make storing this treadmill seamless.

Shop Horizon

Specs

Price: $1,599

Fan: 1

Dimensions: 67″ H x 77″ L x 35″ W

Incline Range: 0%-12%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 350lbs

Weight: 318lbs

Pros

Its 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning can reduce the impact on your joints, as well as simulate outdoor running.

The 12-percent incline range and max speed of 12 miles per hour allow for many types of treadmill workouts, like sprint, hill, and endurance training.

Horizon’s FeatherLight hydraulic folding system takes on most of the weight when folding the deck upright.

Cons

Moving this 318-pound treadmill can be difficult for even two people.

While it can easily fold upright, its large footprint may take up too much room — 18.72 square feet — for those with limited floor space.

With no integrated touchscreen, you’ll need to connect your own device to stream workouts or entertainment.

In addition to its fan embedded in the console, the Horizon 7.4 AT is our choice for the best treadmill with a fan for running because of the cushioned deck, incline range, and max speed. For running treadmills, we like to see a 60-inch long belt deck so that even the strides of tallest runners can comfortably fit and the cushioned 20- by 60-inch running surface on the 7.4 AT helped it earn at least a 4.5-out-of-5 rating in eight of 13 categories — including durability and customizations. 

Many running treadmills have a 20-inch wide deck, so the extra two inches can let you focus on your incline or speed workout even more. Its 12-percent incline and top speed of 12 miles per hour also meet the standards we like to see in the best treadmills for running, and that prompted an adjustability rating of 4 out of 5 from our tester, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach. “The quick dial adjustments let me take on its Sprint 8 HIIT workouts,” they said. “It was way easier than reaching for the console.”

Our BarBend tester choosing a running workout on the Horizon 7.4 AT.

Without a built-in touchscreen, you’ll need to bring your own device to stream workouts, but our tester rated the preset workouts — like Hill Climb and Distance — 5 out of 5. “It’s got all the usual presets, like 5K, Calorie Burn, or Fat Burn, but I also liked that I could just create my own custom workout,” they explained.

At 318-pounds, it’s not going to win any awards for the most portable treadmill, but the FeatherLight hydraulic folding system does let you save around 10 square feet of floor space with the deck folded upright. 

Read our full Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill Review.

Best High-End Treadmill With a Fan: ProForm Pro 9000

ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

If you’re looking for a high-tech tread for your home that can fold up when not in use, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a great option with a 22-inch touchscreen display and automatic incline and speed adjustments. The 60-inch running deck can incline from -3 to 12 percent for a variety of running and hiking workouts.

Shop ProForm

Specs

Price: $1,999

Fan: 1, CoolAire

Dimensions: 59.6″ H x 77.3″ L x 35.3″ W

Incline Range: -3%-12%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Weight: 251lbs

Pros

Along with the two-speed CoolAire fan, it comes replete with luxury features like a 22-inch HD touchscreen and iFIT-integration.

The roomy 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck is supported by ProForm’s ReBound Pro cushioning to support your joints.

The powerful 3.6 CHP motor and -3-percent to 12-percent incline range supports a wide variety of workouts — running, jogging, or walking.

Cons

Despite its hydraulic-assisted upright folding and built-in wheels, moving this 263-pound treadmill can be difficult.

To get the most out of the machine, you may need a $39.99 monthly iFIT subscription

If you need to store it in a space that is not climate-controlled, the warranty will be voided.

The 22-inch HD touchscreen and iFIT-integration aren’t the only reasons the ProForm Pro 9000 is our pick for best high-end treadmill with a fan. Its CoolAire fan comes with two speed settings that can bring the right amount of breeze, whether you’re turning up the heat or taking a leisurely stroll. Along with the shock-absorbing 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck to reduce the impact on your joints, the 3.6 CHP motor and -3-percent to 12-percent incline range make it one of the best high-end treadmills we have put to the test.

Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier rated the Pro 9000 5 out of 5 for six different categories, including customizations. “The Quick Speed Controls made my interval workouts much smoother because I could jump to a specific incline or speed level,” she said. “I just had to tap the level I wanted instead of pounding an up or down arrow over and over.”

Our product tester walking on the ProForm Pro 9000.

Even though an iFIT membership costs $39.99 per month, it unlocks the potential of the machine. “It has all the best tech: Bluetooth connectivity, iFIT integration, and the 22-inch screen felt enormous,” Meier said. The auto-adjusting incline and speed is a nice touch for workouts like the Grand Canyon hiking series I tried out — 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming from this guy.

[Related: The 6 Best Treadmills with iFIT of 2024]

When she assessed the ProForm Pro 9000 for BarBend, certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto called out how the variety of on- and off-machine options on iFIT can keep you engaged and coming back for more. “The ProForm Pro 9000 is one of my favorite treadmills. It offers a ton of features that make it comfortable, convenient, and fun at a reasonable price. I love that you can stream iFIT on this treadmill; iFIT is some of the best interactive programming out there and really helps prevent boredom.”

Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.

Best Budget Treadmill With a Fan: Sole F63

Sole F63 Treadmill

Sole F63 Treadmill

The Sole F63 is a high-quality, no-frills treadmill. The 3.0 HP motor can support up to 325 pounds, and the foldability is ideal for those tight on space. 

Shop SOLE

Specs

Price: $1,099

Fan: 2

Dimensions: 67″ H x 77″ L x 35″ W

Incline Range: 0%-15%

Max Speed: 12mph

Weight Capacity: 325lbs

Weight: 224lbs

Pros

For $1,099, features like a 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck and 15-percent incline range are rare.

The 3.0 CHP motor and top speed of 12 miles per hour can allow for many types of running, jogging, or walking workouts.

The shock absorption in Sole’s Cushion Flex Whisper Deck reduces the impact on lower body joints.

You can follow over 1,400 free treadmill workouts on Sole’s free companion app — Sole+.

Cons

You’ll need to connect your own device to stream your favorite workouts or entertainment.

Dedicated runners may be disappointed by the lack of decline capability.

As our pick for the best budget treadmill with a fan — dual fans, actually — the Sole F63 has the capabilities you’ll find on the best treadmills under $1,500, while saving a few hundred dollars. Its 15-percent incline is actually 3 percent more than average, and the spacious 20-inch by 60-inch belt deck can support the strides of most users, regardless of height. 

The cushioning in that deck can help reduce the impact absorbed by your joints with each foot strike. Whether you are following one of the 1,400 treadmill workouts on Sole+ or doing a manual workout, you can feel that support all the way up to the 12-miles-per-hour max speed. Although it was originally a paid add-on for all their cardio machines, the app is now completely free. In addition to the video workouts, you can also sync your device via Bluetooth to track your workout history and stats.

Our BarBend product tester walking on the Sole F63.

These stats include things like current speed and calories burned and will be displayed on the 6.5-inch LCD screen, but you’ll need to connect your own device if you plan to use Sole+ or any other fitness apps. When she assessed the best budget treadmills for BarBend, our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto said to pay attention to the display. “Budget-friendly treadmills won’t boast the hottest new LED touchscreen display, but that doesn’t mean you should settle for nothing. Look for, at a minimum, an LCD console that displays your current speed, time elapsed or time remaining, and distance covered.”

While it will take up 18.72 square feet — roughly 5 square feet less than your average three-seater sofa — it can easily fold upright with the hydraulic folding mechanism. (2) Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier rated its footprint and portability 4 out of 5. “It’s definitely possible given the upright folding and wheels, but I wouldn’t say it’s easy to move,” she noted.

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Treadmill With a Fan: Echelon Stride-6

Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill

Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill

This tread folds flat to just 10 inches tall. Its max speed is 12 miles per hour, and you get a free 30-day Echelon Premier membership with your purchase, which provides access to over 3,000 live and on-demand classes.

Shop Echelon

Specs

Price: $1,699

Fan: 1

Dimensions: 57” H x 64.8” L x 32.4” W

Incline Range: 0%-12%

Max Speed: 12.4mph

Weight Capacity: 300lbs

Weight: 182.35lbs

Pros

Its Auto-Fold system lowers the console and handrails completely flat, allowing for storage under beds or upright in closets.

The adjustable fan can help keep you cool even up to the 12.4-miles-per-hour max speed.

Its spacious 20-inch by 60-inch cushioned belt deck can provide joint support and support longer strides.

Cons

While the LED windows on the console will display your stats, there is no screen to stream your favorite shows or workouts.

Non-Echelon Premier members only receive a one-year warranty.

The Echelon Stride-6 was an easy choice for the best folding treadmill with a fan because its Auto-Fold system can automatically lay the console and handrails flat atop the deck. In this position, the machine is just 10 inches high, so you can use the horizontal and vertical wheels to easily move it into storage under a bed, against a wall, or even in a closet.

The Echelon Stride folded flat.

Kate Meier, certified personal trainer, owns a similar model — the Echelon Stride — and uses the Auto-Fold capability to tuck it away in a corner in her home. “It’s so easy to fold up and is way more compact than most treadmills,” she said. Its folding capacity is even more impressive given its 12-percent incline range and 20-inch by 60-inch cushioned belt deck. This is the deck size we recommend for running treadmills, as it provides enough room for longer strides.

On the console, you’ll find an adjustable cooling fan to help keep you cool as you approach the top speed of 12.4 miles per hour. Above the fan, you won’t find a touchscreen, although the four LED windows will display your stats like distance and speed. You can, however, slot your own tablet or phone in the large tablet holder, connect via Bluetooth and follow a treadmill workout on Echelon Fit. 

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer, walking on her Echelon Stride.

At $39.99 per month, Echelon’s fitness app may not quite be ready to take on Peloton or iFIT, but another of our testers thinks it’s on its way. “It offers a lot of the same kinds of training, but the production quality is not up to the same standard just yet,” they explained. The Stride-6 comes with a one-year warranty, but another perk to signing up for the app is the included five-year extended warranty for all active users.

[Related: 8 Best Compact Treadmills for 2024

Best Treadmill With a Fan Under $1,000: Schwinn 810

Schwinn 810

Schwinn 810

This treadmill offers a 20-inch x 55-inch running belt with Softrak deck cushioning. It can reach speeds up to 10 MPH with 10% motorized incline.

Shop Schwinn

Specs

Price: $899

Fan: 1

Dimensions: 69.1″ L x 35.6″ W x 56.7″ H

Incline Range: 0%-10%

Max Speed: 10mph

Weight Capacity: 275lbs

Weight: 155lbs

Pros

Its $899 price point is roughly $100 less than the average range of $1,000 to $1,500 for mid-range treadmills.

The 55-inch-long belt deck can support running strides for most people.

With conveniences like a fan, USB charging port, and Bluetooth speakers, you can focus on your training.

Cons

Without a built-in screen, you’ll need to supply your own device.

Our tester pointed out that the belt may be a little thin for anyone with joint issues.

Even among mid-range treadmills — about $1,000 to $1,500 — the Schwinn 810 stands out for its features that allow running, jogging, and walking workouts, while still saving you a couple hundred bucks. With a 55-inch belt deck and 16 preset workouts to follow on the console, most people will be able to run comfortably, even up to the 10-miles-per-hour max speed. For conveniences, adjustability, and overall value, our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer, rated the 810 Treadmill 4 out of 5.

You’ll find your metrics like distance and calories burned on the backlit LCD display, while just below, the fan can help keep you cool during a speed or interval workout. Our tester used the 810 Treadmill for multiple workouts and tried out the fan. “I’m 5-foot, 9-inches, so the fan hit a little bit lower than my face,” they noted. “I’d rather it be right in my face, but it’s fixed, so where it hits you just depends on your height.”

Our tester walking on the Schwinn 810 Treadmill.

For running workouts — especially for taller users — we like to see a 60-inch deck, but 55 inches is the minimum of our recommended range. Our tester also noted its running deck when they tried it out. “Super intense runs may be difficult for anyone with a long stride,” they said. “Taller people would probably be alright walking or jogging on it, though.” They also felt that the belt may be a little thin, so someone having to work around knee discomfort may not find it has enough support.

You do need to supply your own device if you plan on streaming workouts or shows on apps like Netflix or Hulu, but the USB charging port and Bluetooth speakers can give you options for structured training. Although they rated its tech capabilities 3 out of 5, our tester appreciated using a few included features. “I actually did use the Bluetooth speakers, and being able to charge my phone in the device holder was a nice touch,” they pointed out.

[Related: The 8 Best Treadmills Under $1000 of 2024]

What to Consider Before Buying a Treadmill with a Fan

When you start thinking about buying a treadmill, your first move is to identify your deal-breakers — maybe a fan, if you’re reading this — and nice-to-haves. Perhaps you’ll need to use your treadmill in a space with no air conditioning. Maybe you prefer running on a treadmill over jogging or walking. Here are a few factors to consider before taking the leap.

Training Environment

Before even grabbing your measuring tape to map out the spot in your training space your treadmill will live, first ask a few questions about that space. One of the main reasons to buy a treadmill with a fan is to make sure you stay cool while using it. So ask yourself about the characteristics of your training environment that might necessitate a fan on your machine. Is there air conditioning in that space? Is the training area going to be crowded with other people? 

Our BarBend tester unfolding the Horizon 7.4 AT.

As you probably know anecdotally, air movement is one way our bodies can regulate its core temperature — a.k.a. fans can cool you down. (1) Beyond the relief you feel, a fan is a simple way to counter the environmental factors, like lack of air conditioning, that you may not be able to control. 

Budget

As with any major purchase, setting a hard-stop budget can provide clarity and focus when you start looking for the treadmill that meets your needs. Because fans are a fairly common feature on treadmills, there may be lots of options to choose from, regardless of your budget. It’s a good idea to consider other features that affect the type of training you plan to use it for, or the technology capabilities you plan to use. 

[Related: The 7 Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024]

The good news is that many entry-level or mid-range options — both under around $1,500 — may have fans, so after making sure you’ll have some wind in your hair during your workout, decide which other features are important to hit your fitness goals.

Type of Training

If you need to take five kids to soccer practice every day, should you go with the Ferrari? Then maybe you shouldn’t buy a walking treadmill for running, either. Whatever your intended use, you’ll need to know what to look for in a treadmill beyond the fan on the console. Running treadmills, for instance, tend to have at least a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor and longer decks — 60 inches is what we recommend.

Our product tester on the cushioned deck of the ProForm Pro 9000.

The best walking treadmills, on the other hand, may not need motors that powerful, but you might prioritize an incline range of at least 12 percent to add a bit of intensity to your walks. If you’re tight on space, you may need a foldable treadmill that can either fold upright or flat to be easily stashed under a couch or bed. Whatever you plan to use your new treadmill for, check the specs and features to make sure it can support you well.

Different Types of Treadmills with Fans

While you may not see a ton of variety specific to the fans themselves, treadmills that feature built-in fans could be designed for specific training, like running or walking. They also may prioritize tech features like HD touchscreens or integrated workout apps. Here are a few types of treadmills that can keep you cool, no matter how you use them.

Position and Number of Fans

While there may not be much variety among treadmill fans apart from how you adjust its speed or if it swivels, there are two main options out there. Treadmills with dual fans have just that — two fans. This could make a big difference for anyone who knows they’ll need some extra cooling power. Meanwhile, treadmills with a single fan can get the job done, but generally cover a smaller area.

The console of the Sole F63.

In our testing, another note we made a lot was the height of the fan and if it was adjustable or not. Some of our shorter team members remarked that for some machines, a fixed fan meant that it was pointed directly at their face, but it couldn’t be moved. Conversely, a taller user may not appreciate their belly button receiving the bulk of the air. 

For Running

Outside of the type of fan onboard, treadmills that are designed for running need to be able to support heavier use in the short and long terms. If most of your time on your treadmill will be spent running, here’s what our expert reviewer and certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto, recommended when she assessed running treadmills for BarBend. 

“Ideally, a running treadmill will have a powerful motor with at least 3.0 CHP. The best (and usually most expensive) models have a CHP of up to 4.0,” she explains. “A padded deck can help offset some of the impact on your ankles, knees, and hips by absorbing a lot of the shock.” Treadmills that can support running workouts also tend to come loaded with preset programming or compatibility with fitness apps that offer live or on-demand home workouts.

High-End

Treadmills that we consider high-end generally cost over $2,000 and include large touchscreens, decline capability, and heavy-duty steel frames. Most machines in this price range will have conveniences like fans, speakers, or heart rate monitors, but in this price range, you’ll find more powerful fans, multiple levels, or even luxurious options like fans that can adjust based on your workout intensity. If your budget allows, the “high-end” features on these quality treadmills can even include the fan.

Benefits of Treadmills with Fans

Keeping cool during a workout is not just a convenience, but a matter of safety. If you are still on the fence about prioritizing a treadmill with a fan, here are a few reasons to make sure yours can keep you cool.

Temperature Regulation

Whether you have read the research or not, you have probably felt the difference that temperature has on running performance. It’s not hard to imagine that it would be easier to run in 70-degree weather instead of 110-degree weather. Multiple studies have shown how temperature affects athletic performance and, while most people may know this anecdotally, a fan is a simple way to regulate your body temperature while using a treadmill. (3)(1)

Our tester on the Sole F63.

In one 2022 study, researchers found that for every one degree outside of the optimal temperature range — 50 to 63.5 degrees Fahrenheit — performance declined by 0.3 to 0.4 percent. (3) It’s not hard to imagine your home gym or living room topping 63.5 degrees, so outside of achieving your best performance, using the fan on your treadmill to regulate your body temperature may be more practical than adjusting the temperature of your environment.

Availability Despite Outdoor Conditions

A general benefit of treadmills is that, assuming your indoor space is suitable, outdoor conditions will not likely stop you from using them. If it’s too hot or too cold outside, a treadmill can still allow you to get some cardio in, but even if your indoor space is too hot, a fan can help make your workout more comfortable. Even outside of the weather, uneven walking paths, congested sidewalks, or the type of surface may impact your performance.

Versatile Training

Treadmills are a famous home gym essential because they allow so many different types of training. From incline and decline, to endurance and HIIT, you can accomplish a lot with just one piece of equipment. While you would hopefully consider your training space before making your purchase, having a fan onboard the console can provide even more control of your workout by getting some quick climate control while you work up a sweat. 

Final Word

Cranking up the fan during a tough cardio session can bring sweet relief and may be the difference in turning a 30-minute treadmill workout into 40 or 45 minutes. As your body temperature starts to rise, more energy is needed to cool it down and your body has a few ways to get the job done — you may be familiar with…sweating. (1) However, blasting yourself with some cool air is one of the ways we can aid in regulating its temperature.

Because they are a common treadmill feature, fans can often be overlooked or taken for granted. From simple, fixed fans with one speed, to multi-speed auto-adjustable options, there is some variety out there. When you start your quest to find your match, check first for the type of fan, then identify the other tread features that are important in supporting your fitness goals. 

FAQs

What is the best treadmill with a fan?

Our pick for the best treadmill with a fan is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 because, as far as fans go, you can’t beat hands free. The AutoBreeze fan can auto-adjust to respond to the intensity of your workout. Throw in its 20- by 60-inch belt deck, -3-percent decline to 15-percent incline, and 14-inch touchscreen to stream iFIT workouts, and we think it’s one of the best NordicTrack treadmills — and yes, we’ve tested them all.

Do NordicTrack treadmills have fans?

Yes, NordicTrack treadmills feature fans, with the more expensive models — like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 — including their AutoBreeze fan. This fan can automatically adjust its speed to match your workout intensity.

Which treadmill brand is the best?

After years of testing over 40 treadmills, there are several brands we trust to make high-quality home treadmills, like NordicTrack, ProForm, Horizon Fitness, and Sole Fitness.

References

How Thermoregulation Can Give Athletes An Edge (Mission AthleteCare). University of Connecticut Korey Stringer Institute. 2015, May 17. 

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/ 

Mantzios K, Ioannou LG, Panagiotaki Z, Ziaka S, Périard JD, Racinais S, Nybo L, Flouris AD. Effects of Weather Parameters on Endurance Running Performance: Discipline-specific Analysis of 1258 Races. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2023 Jan 1;54(1):153-161.

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Open Gym – Fri, Feb 23

CrossFit Albuquerque – Open Gym

View Public Whiteboard

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) (AMRAP – Reps)

Complete as many rounds as possible in 15 minutes of:

3 wall walks

12 dumbbell snatches

15 box jump-overs

F: 35-lb. dumbbell, 20-in. box

M: 50-lb. dumbbell, 24-in. box
To learn more about CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) click here
RX – 24/20”, 50/35lbs

Scaled L1 – 24/20”, 35/25lbs

Scaled L2 – 20/12”, 25/15lbs

Scaled L3 – coach directed

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Home Workouts – Fri, Feb 23

CrossFit Albuquerque – Home Workouts

View Public Whiteboard

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) (AMRAP – Reps)

Complete as many rounds as possible in 15 minutes of:

3 wall walks

12 dumbbell snatches

15 box jump-overs

F: 35-lb. dumbbell, 20-in. box

M: 50-lb. dumbbell, 24-in. box
To learn more about CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) click here
RX – 24/20”, 50/35lbs

Scaled L1 – 24/20”, 35/25lbs

Scaled L2 – 20/12”, 25/15lbs

Scaled L3 – coach directed

The post Home Workouts – Fri, Feb 23 appeared first on Crossfit Albuquerque.

CrossFit – Fri, Feb 23

CrossFit Albuquerque – CrossFit

Warm-up

2 MIN CARDIO

3×10 band walkouts

10 bird dogs

1 min plank

CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) (AMRAP – Reps)

Complete as many rounds as possible in 15 minutes of:

3 wall walks

12 dumbbell snatches

15 box jump-overs

F: 35-lb. dumbbell, 20-in. box

M: 50-lb. dumbbell, 24-in. box
To learn more about CrossFit Games Open 22.1 RX (Ages 16-54) click here
RX – 24/20”, 50/35lbs

Scaled L1 – 24/20”, 35/25lbs

Scaled L2 – 20/12”, 25/15lbs

Scaled L3 – coach directed

The post CrossFit – Fri, Feb 23 appeared first on Crossfit Albuquerque.

Meet Dylan Gibbs: The First U.S. Male Collegiate Functional Fitness National Champion

In early February, Dylan Gibbs, a biology student at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA, became the first USA Functional Fitness National Collegiate Champion in a down-to-the-wire competition that was determined in the fifth and final test between himself and Will Campbell.

The test: 12-calorie row, 12 bar-facing burpees, and 12 thrusters at 135 pounds.

“It was neck-and-neck, and whoever won [the workout] would win the competition…he was right next to me, and I was able to edge him out,” said the 21-year-old Gibbs, a senior set to graduate next December.

Remind me: The first-ever USA Functional Fitness National Collegiate Championships was put on by the USA Functional Fitness Federation, a nonprofit organization that’s part of the International Functional Fitness Federation. The federation’s goal is to promote the growth of functional fitness as a sport.

The competition, held at CrossFit Reston in Herndon, VA, on February 3-4, featured both individual and pairs divisions and was open to anyone under the age of 25 currently enrolled in a degree program at a U.S. college or university. Participation was determined through an online qualifier consisting of four tests. 

Though not an official CrossFit competition, the event looked similar to one, albeit with one significant difference: Athletes were put through five tests of fitness — an endurance test, a strength test, a gymnastics test, a mixed modal test, and a power test — in a 90-minute window, with 10 minutes of rest between events. 

[Related: I Trained at CrossFit Mayhem for 4 Days. Here’s What I Learned]

Dylan Gibbs’ Story

Gibbs, who has been doing CrossFit since the eighth grade and currently trains at Red Stick CrossFit in Baton Rouge, first caught wind of the competition when the Morning Chalk Up wrote about it last August.

His goal was not just to qualify but to win the whole thing, which he was ultimately able to pull off.

The win has helped Gibbs believe he can reach his goal of qualifying for Semifinals this season. (Last year, Gibbs placed 114th in Quarterfinals in North America West). 

“Definitely, this builds my confidence because a lot of the training I do is on my own, so it was nice to see where I stack up against other college kids who are trying to compete,” said the 6-foot, 200-pound Gibbs, who played football, baseball, wrestled, and threw the javelin in high school.

What might be most impressive about Gibbs is that he doesn’t even have a coach. Not a CrossFit coach, not a gymnastics coach, let alone a mental coach or a nutrition coach. In fact, Gibbs does his own programming.

“I do have some pretty good connections that I can bounce ideas off of […] but I do all my own programming,” he said. “I geek out over this stuff.”

[Related: The Untold History of Functional Fitness]

Gibbs builds his strength program first, which acts as the foundation for the rest of his program, he explained. And then, every Sunday, he sits down and fills in his conditioning and gymnastics work in a way that compliments his strength training.

Sometimes he says he pulls workouts from Mayhem Athlete or HWPO, but he is systematic about fitting it in, he explained.

I won’t just randomly throw 100 handstand push-ups in there and then go strict press later in the afternoon,” he explained. 

The same is true of his nutrition. It has been a whole lot of trial and error, researching, listening to podcasts, and paying attention to what other elite CrossFit athletes are eating.

“Any time athletes post a day of eating, I just look at what they’re eating, and I can see it’s mostly whole foods, and they’re eating a lot,” Gibbs said.

Though he doesn’t count his macros — ”I just slowly kept increasing my food until I stopped losing weight,” he said — Gibbs figures he eats about 5,000 calories a day, starting with six eggs on four pieces of toast, oatmeal, a banana, and a protein shake with berries for breakfast. This is usually followed by a bowl of white rice with “a giant steak” and a protein shake for dinner.

Figuring it out on his own is working for him for now, but Gibbs also said he’s open to the idea of hiring a coach once he graduates from college at the end of the year.

The big picture: Gibbs sees his recent win at the Collegiate National Championships as just the start of what he hopes to be a successful career in the sport, well beyond college.

“I’m going to be really real with myself. I definitely think Semifinals are in the cards this year,” he said. But he expects it might take him another couple of years to get to the level of being able to qualify for the CrossFit Games.

Ultimately, Gibbs is in it for the long haul. Not only does he have his eyes on the CrossFit Games eventually, he wants to be the best in the world.

“I just really enjoy what I’m doing every single day, but the ultimate goal is to win the whole thing,” he said. 

Featured image: @shotsbysroka / Instagram

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Wellness Bodybuilder Chloe Pickford Shares How to Build “Whammy” Quads 

IFBB Pro League Wellness bodybuilder Chloe Pickford secured her pro card in 2022 and will make her professional debut in 2024. The English athlete chronicles her debut preparation on her YouTube channel, providing a glimpse into her workouts.

On Feb. 17, 2024, Pickford published a video featuring her quad training at the UltraFlex Gym Derby comprised of:

Pickford’s Quad Workout

Machine Leg Extension

45-degree Leg Press Machine

Pendulum Squat

Smith Machine Bulgarian Split Squat

Machine Lateral Raise

Before hitting quads, Pickford warms up with several sets on the ab crunch machine — she trains abdominals twice weekly. Additionally, she tags delt training to her quad day to balance out weaknesses in her physique. See Pickford’s quad growth tips below: 

A week and a half into her professional debut preparation, Pickford has already shed over two and a half kilograms (5.5 pounds). She’s cut her calorie intake by 400-500 and walks at least 10,000 steps.

Pickford trains legs four times weekly, saving quad training for separate days. Pickford has to prioritize a more developed lower body as a Wellness athlete.

Machine Leg Extension

Pickford says it’s essential to engage the quads when performing the leg extension; she’s not just moving the weight, but rather using the weight to stimulate the tension on her quads.

Pickford thinks of each rep in two points: point A (knee flexion) to point B (knee extension). She pauses when fully contracted at the top of the concentric and moves slowly through eccentrics to maximize tension on the quads.

45-degree Leg Press Machine 

Pickford wears knee sleeves during leg presses, lowering the weight as far as possible without overstressing her joints.

The goal is to go deep…to get as much knee flexion as possible.

Pickford has noticed significant leg development since incorporating pause reps into her programming.

Pendulum Squat

Pickford executed pendulum squats by grasping the secured straight bar for support. This exercise involves performing a squat on a platform angled at 45 degrees.

Compared to the standard barbell squat, the pendulum squat allows for a greater range of motion while placing less strain on the knees and lower back. As such, more knee flexion can be achieved, and, therefore, more quad stimulation.

Smith Machine Bulgarian Split Squat

Pickford used a box to get into a split stance to perform Bulgarian split squats on a Smith machine. She cautioned going to failure as there is some difficulty getting out of the position safely and could lead to injury if done improperly.

Machine Lateral Raise

Pickford slowly lifted the machine lateral raise, keeping her arms as straightened as possible. Her arms ascend above parallel to the ground for full medial delt engagement. When Pickford’s range of motion diminishes due to fatigue, so continues with partial reps to failure.

Per Pickford, if an athlete is serious about competing in the Wellness division, they must dedicate over a year of prep before stepping on stage, citing the rationale that the division demands more muscular development than other divisions like Bikini.

You have to commit to a two, three, [or a] four-year off-season. That is the reality of the sport.

Pickford ends her training session with posing practice. Pickford expects to compete in four pro shows in her pro bodybuilding debut year, with plans to compete in Toronto, California, and Portugal to get a wide variety of judges critiques

Featured image: @chloepickford_ifbbpro on Instagram

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The Wall Sit Exercise: Benefits, Best Variations, and Form Tips

You’re going to want to be sitting down for this one. Believe it or not, you don’t need to do too many fancy exercises if you want to strengthen your hips, thighs, and abdominal muscles. Sometimes, an exercise like the wall sit — and the power of gravity — is all you need. 

The wall sit exercise (sometimes called a wall squat) is an isometric core move designed to engage your abs, strengthen your legs, and help you develop better posture all at once. Here’s how to do it. 

Editor’s Note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. When starting a new training regimen and/or diet, it is always a good idea to consult with a trusted medical professional. We are not a medical resource. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. They are not substitutes for consulting a qualified medical professional.

How To Do Wall Sits

Wall sits are a simple move, but that doesn’t make them easy. This exercise involves your abs, thighs, and glutes all at once for a comprehensive lower-body workout. As a bonus, no equipment is needed for this one. Here’s how to perform wall sits with proper form.

Equipment Needed: All you’ll need for the wall sit is a wall. You may want to wear comfortable, supportive running shoes or cross-trainers, however. 

Step 1 — Stand with your back against the wall and your feet underneath you with a close stance.

Step 2 — Lean your weight into the wall, and then gradually walk your feet out in front of you while keeping your spine flush against the wall until your knees form a right angle.

Step 3 — Inch your feet out and bend your knees to slide your back down the wall until your legs are bent at a 90-degree angle. Place your hands on your hips, kneecaps, or let them hang at your sides. 

Coach’s Tip: Pick a point in front of you and fix your gaze on it for the duration of the exercise.

Modifications

Make It Easier: The more your knee is bent during the wall sit, the harder the exercise will be. Make the move easier by keeping your knees locked and leaning up against the wall. You can also support your upper body’s weight by placing your palms onto your knees and pushing gently. 

Make It Harder: Put a sand bag, weight plate, or another weighted object onto your thighs during the wall sit to crank up the challenge. 

Wall Sit Variations

The wall sit is one of the best core strengthening exercises you can do, but you aren’t required to do it. Here are a few wall sit variations you can try out: 

Single-Leg Wall Sit

Why Do It: The two-legged squat position of the wall sit might be too easy for you. If that’s the case, try making it a single-leg exercise by lifting one foot off the floor. Not only will this dramatically increase the difficulty of the wall sit, but it’ll also activate muscles like your obliques, hip flexors, and transverse abdominis to a greater degree. 

Equipment Needed: You don’t need any equipment for the single-leg wall sit. 

Stand up against the wall as you would for a default wall sit.

Sink into the wall sit until your legs are at a 90 degree angle. Ensure that your lower back, upper back, and head are in contact with the wall. 

Brace your core and slowly lift one foot off the ground. You can hold it motionless or cross it over your other knee. 

Wall Sit With Dumbbells

Why Do It: Adding weight to bodyweight core exercises like the wall sit is a great way to introduce some progressive overload. This can help you ensure that you’re improving your body strength in a consistent, measurable way.

Equipment Needed: You’ll need a pair of dumbbells for this one, but you can hold kettlebells instead. 

Grab ahold of two dumbbells and stand with your back against the wall.

Slowly walk your feet forward, bending your knees and letting your entire back slide down the wall.

Once your legs form a 90-degree angle, stop and hold the position. Keep your core engaged and shoulders down away from your ears.

Wall Sit Alternatives

Wall sits can be dreadfully difficult or painfully boring. If you want to spice up your strength training but still work your abs without equipment, these alternatives will get the job done just as well:

Plank

[Read More: How to Do a Side Plank, With Alternatives and Benefits]

Why Do It: Planks are very similar to wall sits or wall squats, since you still need to brace your abs and hold yourself in a stationary position. However, you don’t need to rely on your leg strength very much during planks. 

Equipment Needed: All you need for the plank is some open space, but an exercise mat might be wise to include for comfort.

Get into a push-up position with your arms locked. Ensure that your body forms a straight line from head to toe.

Get down onto your elbows.

Hold the plank position. Ensure that your knees and hips never bend, and that your lower back doesn’t sag down to the floor. 

Dead Bug

[Read More: Dead Bug Benefits and Three Core Blasting Variations]

Why Do It: The dead bug is very similar to a wall sit, except you utilize the floor for stability rather than a vertical surface. There’s also a dynamic element in play here, as you slowly move one limb while stabilizing the other. This move is more challenging on your coordination, but easier on your legs.

Equipment Needed: You don’t need anything for a dead bug, but a yoga mat might be a good idea. 

Lie on the ground on your back with your legs up and bent to 90 degrees. 

Hold your arms straight up toward the ceiling. 

From here, simultaneously straighten your right leg out until your knee and hip are extended but off the floor, while also lowering your left arm back behind your head.

Once your left leg is fully straightened and your right arm is as far behind your head as you can go, pause, then return to the starting position.

Perform another repetition with the opposite leg and arm. 

Who Should Do Wall Sits

The wall sit isn’t just for the chairless. There are a number of different reasons why wall sits might find their way into your workout program.

Beginners

If you’re new to exercise, strengthening your abs, lower back, and inner thighs should be high on your priority list, since these muscles are responsible for bearing lots of load during other moves you commonly perform in the gym.

[Read More: 5 Beginner Friendly Squat Variations]

This makes the wall sit a great beginner core workout all on its own. It’ll also teach you how to properly brace your abs and align your ribcage with your pelvis, which is crucial during exercises like the squat or deadlift. 

The Elderly

Make no mistake — elderly folk should work out in order to improve their quality of life. Studies show that postural strength training and moves that challenge stability are very effective at reducing muscle loss and fall risk in older adults. (1)

Wall Sit Sets & Reps

Wall sits don’t really have sets and reps in the same way that other leg exercises do. Since this is an isometric or non-moving exercise, you’ll want to instead test your muscle activation and endurance capacity by timing how long you can hold the position for.

Beginner: Try 5-8 sets of 10-second wall sits to build up your volume.

Intermediate: Do 3-4 rounds of 30 to 45-second wall sits.

Advanced: Perform 4 rounds of 1-minute wall sits, then one additional round holding the position until complete failure. 

Benefits of the Wall Sit

Wall sits are good for a lot more than helping you save money on furniture. Think of them as an all-purpose wellness exercise that happens to cause some real burn in your legs, glutes, and core. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Easy To Learn and Perform

Not every move that works multiple muscle groups at once is as simple and straightforward as the wall sit. But luckily this movement is both effective and practical.

[Read More: Squats and Deadlifts Core Training Are Not Enough to Build a Strong, Defined Core]

Learning proper wall sit techniques only takes a few minutes, and you can do them basically anywhere. 

May Reduce Knee Pain

Believe it or not, one of the best ways to reduce or prevent joint pain is to use that joint and strengthen it with weight-bearing exercise. Think of it like this; if your knees can tolerate holding up all your weight during a wall sit, walking or running should be no big deal. Studies have shown that the wall sit may have positive effects on chronic knee pain. (2)

Strengthen Legs and Core 

The primary purpose of the wall sit is to enhance your tolerance for weight. You achieve this by bending your knees and hips, which requires the corresponding muscles to leap into action.

[Read More: Should You Train Core Every Day?]

Further up, your abdominals work overtime to hold your torso in place on the wall.

Wall Sit Muscles Worked

You might be surprised by how many muscles the wall sit works at once. Here’s a brief rundown of those muscles, ordered from most engaged to least. 

Quadriceps: The main muscle working during the wall sit is actually your quadriceps, which crosses your knee joint. Your quads contract to maintain the angle of your leg during the wall sit.

Core: Your rectus abdominis and other nearby muscles like your obliques must stay engaged to maintain your torso posture and keep your back flush against the wall.

Hip Flexors: Since you’re technically performing a sitting movement, the hip flexors on the front of your upper thigh must contract isometrically to keep your pelvis in proper alignment. 

[Read More: What Muscles Do Squats Work? Plus Form, Benefits, and Variations]

Common Wall Sit Mistakes

The wall sit may be as straightforward as an exercise gets: Wall? Sit. But that doesn’t mean nothing can go wrong. Be mindful of these common errors when performing wall sits yourself: 

Bracing With Your Arms

You can certainly use your arm muscles during the wall sit to make the move easier. By placing your palms on your knees, you can apply some force backward into the wall and artificially make your body feel lighter.

[Read More: 12 Science-Backed Benefits of Squats You Should Know About]

However, this does also diminish the effectiveness of the wall sit. If you find yourself relying on your arms, you may need to straighten your knees slightly instead to make the move a bit easier. 

Arching Your Back

One of the most underrated benefits of the wall sit is that the wall itself provides feedback about your posture. The exercise forces you to maintain contact with the wall along all points of your spine. If you find your lower back arches off the wall, your core may not be strong enough to keep you in the right place. 

FAQs

Is a 2-minute wall sit good?

The amount of time you can hold a wall sit for will vary depending on your experience level. A beginner might struggle for more than a few seconds where someone with more practice can hold the position for minutes at a time. Aim for a 30 second hold, then progress up to 2 minutes. Once you can easily do more than 2 minutes in the wall sit, you might want to try adding weight.

Is a wall sit good for you?

Studies have shown that the wall sit can help with conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome. Wall sits are often prescribed in clinical settings to help develop postural strength and stability as well.

Can wall sits reduce belly fat?

No specific exercise will burn off belly fat on its own. Fat loss comes from eating fewer calories than you burn. While the wall sit does burn some calories and will engage your abdominal muscles, don’t expect it to reduce body fat. 

References

Aartolahti E, Lönnroos E, Hartikainen S, Häkkinen A. Long-term strength and balance training in prevention of decline in muscle strength and mobility in older adults. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2020 Jan;32(1):59-66. doi: 10.1007/s40520-019-01155-0. Epub 2019 Mar 4. PMID: 30830597; PMCID: PMC6974487.

Bevilaqua-Grossi, Débora & Felicio, Lilian & Simões, Rebeca & Coqueiro, Kelly & Monteiro-Pedro, Vanessa. (2005). Electromyographic activity evaluation of the patella muscles during squat isometric exercise in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Esporte. 11. 

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CrossFit HQ’s Former Director of Marketing Opens New Affiliate 

Keith Knapp and his wife Julianne found the perfect spot to open a small CrossFit box in their town of Fairfield, OH. Two weeks later, CrossFit HQ eliminated Keith’s job.

The pair wanted to open a gym in addition to their full-time jobs. Still, when Knapp learned that his role as director of marketing was being eliminated, he immediately pivoted to spearhead the construction of the gym.

“At a certain point, I have to just accept reality and move on and do the best that I can to continue to pour myself into promoting the [CrossFit] methodology, which I’ve believed in for 16 years now,” Knapp tells the Morning Chalk Up. 

The gym, CrossFit Fairfield, will officially launch on Saturday, February 24.

“I’m living and breathing everything about the role that I have and the methodology that we’re trying to promote. And then the role that I had gets eliminated, and so I’m like, ‘Well, wait a minute, this feels a little bit interesting,’” Knapp says.

“There’s CrossFit HQ the company, and there is CrossFit the methodology, and I don’t necessarily have to support CrossFit HQ the company. But that being said, I do believe that all the things that they’re currently doing are the right things to do.”

[Related: The Guide to CrossFit Gym Etiquette: It’s More Than Just Lifting]

Knapp was in his role as director of marketing at CrossFit for 19 months, but he adds that he has no animosity for HQ’s decisions and is instead taking this as an opportunity to focus on the gym and his family.

“[CrossFit is] trying to support affiliates and [make] them better businesses. They’re trying to promote the leveling up of coaches, which I think is really important. They’re trying to make sure that the experience inside of CrossFit affiliates is better than it has been universally across the board,” Knapp says. 

“They are trying to point more people to CrossFit gyms near them, which I think is really important. So all the things that they’re currently doing, I agree with, so I don’t have to do a lot of stretching to find a reason to support the company because I believe in what they’re doing.” 

For the time being, Knapp will coach the morning and youth classes at his gym until he figures out his next steps professionally. He originally trained, and had an affiliate going, in his garage where he’d host kids’ classes. 

The new gym is just an extension of what Knapp’s already built, but it opens it up to more of his community and brings on other coaches in the area.

“We’ve got an office. We have a small lobby area that we call our family room that has a couch and a TV and a bunch of kids’ toys. And we’ve got a little play set out there for kids because a lot of our members are parents,” Knapp says. 

“We’ve got five [part-time coaches] now who all have multiple kids. And so family is a huge part of what we’re trying to do because [my wife and I] have four kids. Family is everything to us, so we wanted to make sure that our community could support that kind of a clientele.” 

“People from all ends of the CrossFit world have been incredibly kind to me and to my family during this time. So having that support from literally everyone has been really cool. And that support honestly is coming from inside HQ too.” 

When something major happens, like the loss of a job, it can be easy to dwell on the “why?” and the “what if?” But Knapp says those questions don’t help anything.

“The best question that I can ask is ‘What’s the best next step?’” Knapp says. “That’s the question I’ve been asking myself every morning when I wake up and every move that I’m making currently, whether that’s a move that I’m making to continue to build a network inside this ecosystem or moves that I’m making to open the gym to build relationships with business owners in my own community, those are the next steps that I can take.” 

The details: The gym’s grand opening will feature giveaways, food and drinks, and a chance to meet the coaching staff. Those in the area looking to sign up can do so here. Or visit the gym’s new website to check them out.

Featured image: Keith Knapp

The post CrossFit HQ’s Former Director of Marketing Opens New Affiliate  appeared first on BarBend.

The Jaw-Dropping Transformation of a Drug Addict Who Shed 55 Pounds in Just 24 Weeks (and Went from 35% to 10% Body Fat)

Matt Ellengold, a former drug addict from London, achieved a remarkable physical transformation over the course of six months.

Prior to joining UP Fitness, Matt’s life revolved around drugs, alcohol, and partying. During his recovery, weight was not a priority, so he continued eating what he wished. However, after coming off the drugs, he was horrified by the way he looked while taking snaps for his dating profile.

“I used to go to bed at night and hope I wouldn’t wake up”

Matt Ellengold

With no self-confidence or self-worth, Matt turned to UP Fitness to transform his health and achieve his dream body.

James, his gym trainer, assured him that a 24-week commitment could result in reducing his body fat to 12% and achieving a target weight of 185 pounds (He was 240 pounds with a 35% body fat at the time). 

Here’s how he did it:

His diet before transformation

Matt’s diet before his transformation was not healthy and consisted of high-calorie foods. He would eat a granola bowl with yogurt, berries, and granola or a hot croissant with ham, cheese, and bacon for breakfast.

For snacks, he would have a muffin, and for lunch, he would eat rice with chicken. His afternoon snack would consist of crisps, a chocolate bar, or biscuits.

For dinner, he would order takeaway delivery such as Dominos large pizza, and for dessert, he would have half a tub of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream.

His Updated Diet

Matt’s diet during his transformation was protein-focused, with a daily calorie intake of 1,700kcal (he used MyFitnessPall to track everything he ated). He would have breakfast plus three small meals spaced throughout the day, and two portions of carbs (30 grams each).

He would have a protein shake after his morning training. For breakfast, he would have a protein yogurt breakfast bowl (yogurt, berries, and protein powder).

For meal 1 (12.30 pm), he would have piri piri chicken with Mediterranean vegetables and sweet potato wedges.

For meal 2 (4.30 pm), he would have garlic and chili steak and vegetables and sweet potato wedges.

For meal 3 (8.30 pm), he would have peri peri chicken with Mediterranean vegetables.

His snack would consist of two small pots of sugar-free jelly (10kcal each).

A Customized Training Plan

Matt started started to train three to four times weekly, stimulating muscle growth while maintaining a protein-rich diet to support recovery and muscle development.

To enhance weight loss and caloric burn, he also did daily walks to meet a goal of 10,000 steps (he used a Fitbit to track his steps). This routine was strategic in creating a caloric deficit which is key for weight reduction.

His typical Weekly Routine:

Strength Training: 3-4 sessions

Cardio: Daily walking to achieve steps

An Amazing Evolution

After six months of consistent effort, he completely reshaped his physique. He shed 55 pounds to achieve an athletic build and a mere 10% body fat. Friends were astounded by his comparative before and after images. 

Key insights from Matt’s Journey:

Embrace the support offered by others.

The path to a healthier lifestyle requires tenacity and sacrifice.

Personal growth should be the true yardstick of success, not others’ achievements.

2024 World’s Strongest Firefighter Competition Preview

The 2024 World’s Strongest Firefighter strongman and strongwoman competitions will be held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH, as a part of the Arnold Sports Festival on the weekend of Mar. 1-3, 2024.

Over 120 firefighters from around the world will gather to compete across five different divisions. The top 10 finishers in the Men’s Open and the top two in the Men’s Middleweights and Women’s divisions will advance to the Finals to crown the 2024 champion. The previous four champions of this contest are:

2019: Tim Scott (CAL FIRE, California)

2020: Ben Gallaher (Kern County, Calif.)

2022: Daniel Camacho (Phoenix, Ariz.)

2023: Andrew Burton (Rockwell, Texas)

This larger lineup and division increase is a new change, but organizer Noah Justin shared that it was necessary because of athletes’ increased participation demand. Justin expressed these adjustments make sense as they better represent what someone would see in an actual fire department.

“If you were to walk in a fire department in many towns and cities, you would see men and women — all of which have to be strong and fit to perform their duties, which are vital to their communities,” said Justin. “As Arnold Schwarzenegger said, “They are the real heroes.” So, we want to provide the platform for them to showcase their abilities.”

[Related: How to Watch the 2024 Arnold Classic Competitions]

2024 World’s Strongest Firefighter Rosters

The rosters for all five divisions are below, with names in alphabetical order:

Women’s Under 72KG

Stacy Aguirrebarrena

Parker Ashworth

Anne Butters

Sophia Cooley

Natalie Cooper

Alaynea Decker

Julianne Durante

Samantha Hamilton

Laura Moran

Megan Prato

Taryn Rooney

Rosanna Silbaugh

Stephanie Waugh

Wendi Wentzell

Women’s Over 72KG

Jennifer Ashe

Abigail Buday

Alexandra Castellanos

Samantha Hamilton

Kelly Lamb

Meryah Wilson

Men’s Middleweight Under 90KG

Anthony Esteves

Ivann Falcon

Alexander Galarza

Robert Garcia

Joel Hensley

Chen Junyang

Noah Keller

Mark Lane

John Lloyd

Alfred Munoz

Edward Mussi

Luis Saldana

Tyler Scott

Liam Shiels

James White

Men’s Middleweight Under 105KG

Colton Adams

Mike Anderson

Frank Boniello

Ben Brandon

Thomas Bradley

Kevin Carroll, Jr

Jerry Castillo

Steven Dent

Joshua Dunmire

Dave Dunn

Paul Emmick

Cory Fain

Colin Fay

Adam Hetterle

Martin Horký

Codey Kimble

Nick Knull

Guerrero Lopez

Kevin Manson

Eliezio Marchezi

Joe McGhee

Cody Monger

Edwardo Morales

Tyler Muniz

Anthony Muzquiz

Christopher Northern

Ben Pace

Jan Pipiš

Jacob Powell

Justin Ray

Aaron Rich

Logan Sad

Gregory Van Mierlo

Charles Voorhees

Harry Walker

Taygen Watson

Brian Weber

Stephen Weldon

Dylan West

Chris Wickiser

Andrew Young

David Jeremiah Young

Men’s Open

Jordan Barr

Seth Bowen

Przemyslaw Brzoza

Daniel Cave

Robert Coleman

Michael Ebanks

Jeffrey Elian

Alek Escobedo

Ryan Fincham

Sevin Franck

Justin Grigg

Zackary Hash

William Hegedus

Cornelius Henderson

Marc Hernandez

Patrick-Michel Houle

Sawyer Kemp

Scotty Keyser

Olivier de Launière

George Lusito

Adam MacDonnell

Corey Makowski

Jason Marvin

Kevin Matthews

Michael McGowan

Cathal McNally

Nathan Millsaps

Andrew Morales

Christopher Mount

Sonny Murphy

Kevin Ramsey

Chris Rios

Louis Sciaqua

Robert Seggel

Casey Shoe

Henry Spencer

Cameron St. Amand

Matt Staker

Panayiotis Stavropoulos

Brady Sterchi

Marc Taylor

Joseph Voiles

Christopher Wallace

Marcus Waugh

Caleb Woodall

Charles Woodford

[Related: The Shaw Classic’s 2024 Strongest Man On Earth Events Announced]

Event Schedule

Events will occur throughout the first two days of competition to determine who will advance to the finals. The schedule for each of these events is below:

Friday, March 1, 2024 – Preliminary Events

Cerberus Bag Toss Over Bar

Press Gauntlet

Anderson Lever Squat with Trump Weight

Yoke/Wheelbarrow Race

Saturday, March 2, 2024 – Finals

Max Sandbag-to-Shoulder

Fire Hydrant Press for Reps

Crucifix Axle Hold

Ambulance Tire Deadlift for Reps

How to Watch

The competition is being produced in partnership with Strongman Corporation. The finals of this competition will be streamed live for fans to watch free of charge on the 2024 Arnold Sports Festival live stream. 

This weekend-long event also serves as a fundraiser to benefit the Santa Monica Firefighters Relief Fund, CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation, and the Columbus Firefighters Foundation. More information and updates about the 2024 World’s Strongest Firefighter contest are available on their Instagram page @asfworldsstrongestfirefighter.

Featured Image: @asfworldsstrongestfirefighter on Instagram

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