Crunch Fitness will host a nationwide fundraising event on May 31 to support Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS, an organization dedicated to funding research, developing treatments, and raising awareness for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The event will take place at Crunch locations across the country from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. local time. Both members and nonmembers are invited to participate. The 90-minute “Love Your Muscles” class will feature three 20-minute training sessions focusing on strength, core, and mobility, followed by a 30-minute dance segment. The event costs $20, with all proceeds benefiting Augie’s Quest. Additional donations will also be accepted from those unable to attend the class.
Chad Waetzig, Chief Marketing Officer of Crunch Fitness and member of Augie’s Quest’s fitness advisory council, expressed pride in the company’s ongoing support for the cause. “At Crunch, we make serious fitness fun, including community engagement through exciting classes that support a bigger cause,” Waetzig said. “We’re proud to have contributed to Augie’s Quest through donations and raising awareness for ALS research.”
Augie’s Quest was founded by fitness pioneer Augie Nieto, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2005. Determined to find a cure, Nieto’s organization has raised over $200 million since its inception. Nieto passed away in 2023.
The event will include bodyweight strength training, a “Tough 20” class targeting core muscles for improved posture, and an athletic class called “Joint Ventures” to enhance mobility and flexibility. The program will conclude with either a Zumba or “So You Think You Can’t Dance” party.
The event’s 90-minute format has symbolic significance. “Every 90 minutes, someone is diagnosed with ALS, making each minute of this class a symbol of hope, support, and action,” the Love Your Muscles webpage states.
Waetzig also highlighted the broader impact of the event: “We’re excited to unite the Crunch community nationwide with programming that celebrates Augie’s Quest’s 20-year legacy and motivates our members to move for meaningful change.”
