Shining a Spotlight on F.R.E.E. Fitness: A Champion for Mental Health and Community Well-Being

Feb 26th, 2025

The Push Up Challenge: A Powerful Fundraiser for Mental Health

F.R.E.E. Fitness has been a proud participant in the Push Up Challenge, an initiative that has raised much-needed funds and awareness for mental health. This challenge, which encourages participants to push themselves physically while supporting mental health initiatives, is a testament to the power of fitness and community.

The Push Up Challenge is rooted in the belief that every small effort counts in the fight for mental health awareness.

 “When we started into the challenge, one of our clients told us that they called the CMHA Distress Line when they were going through a really rough time, and it really helped them.”

The F.R.E.E. Fitness Story

F.R.E.E. Fitness was founded over a decade ago by three passionate trainers—Tony, Max, and Tyler—who initially gained attention for their free 16-week Bootcamps. They also adapted during the pandemic by offering “Balcony Bootcamps,” a creative solution that kept their community active while adhering to health guidelines.

What sets F.R.E.E. Fitness apart is their approach to both holistic personal fitness training and business. With a basic gym fee of just $65 per month, plus a “pay-as-you-feel” sliding scale per training session with your own coach, they focus on keeping costs low for clients while ensuring their trainers earn a fair wage. This is achieved through a unique business model where trainers operate as tenants within the gym. Trainers pay a modest fee to use the gym space, and they also benefit from a sliding scale system when it comes to client rates. More experienced trainers are paid more, while new trainers start at a lower rate but see their compensation grow as they gain experience. It’s a “pay as you feel” model that puts the power in the hands of both the client and the personal trainer, making fitness more accessible while fostering personal growth for both trainers and clients.

At F.R.E.E Fitness, you don’t just choose a trainer—you apply for a trainer that suits your needs and budget. The team will match you with a trainer who fits both your fitness goals and financial situation. The gym also boasts a variety of experts including physiotherapists, massage therapists, a nutritionist, and a yoga instructor, providing a holistic approach to wellness.

An Atmosphere of Family and Support

Beyond the equipment and training, the atmosphere at F.R.E.E. Fitness is one of warmth and community. It feels like family—a place where everyone, regardless of their fitness level, is welcomed and supported. And it’s hard to miss Max’s lovely dog, Lucy, who brings an added sense of comfort to the space. As soon as you walk in, it feels like home.

The most striking element of F.R.E.E. Fitness is their focus on mental health. Tony, Max, and Tyler are deeply committed to helping their clients get to the root of their challenges, ensuring that physical fitness is not just about the body, but the mind too. As Tony wisely puts it, “You only lose if you don’t learn,” and at F.R.E.E. Fitness, learning is an ongoing, empowering process. It’s not about winning or losing—it’s about growing and becoming the best version of yourself, both mentally and physically.

Max, isn’t just a certified fitness coach he is also a life coach with a passion for mental health, brings a profound understanding of the mind-body connection. Through his own experiences, Max has cultivated a mindful and physically healthy approach to fitness that resonates with his clients. He and his business partners have successfully aligned their business goals with their life goals, creating a business environment that honors healthy boundaries and mutual respect.

F.R.E.E. Fitness and CMHA Edmonton: A Perfect Partnership

At CMHA Edmonton, we are deeply moved by F.R.E.E. Fitness’s commitment to mental health and their dedication to creating a positive, supportive community. Their partnership with us is not just about fundraising—it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. As Tony, Max, and Tyler continue to make strides in promoting physical and mental health, we are proud to stand beside them.

Tony summed it up best, “CMHA goes the extra mile—that’s why we will always support you,” and we feel the same way about F.R.E.E. Fitness. They were warm and welcoming when we visited them to thank them for raising money during the Push Up Challenge. They truly embody the spirit of community and mental health, and we are proud to highlight their efforts.

A Thank You to F.R.E.E. Fitness

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to F.R.E.E. Fitness for their ongoing support and for showing us what it means to live a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle. They are not just a business—they are a beacon of light in Edmonton, making the city a healthier and happier place to live, work, and play.