Xponential Fitness partnered with the ACS to help fund research and treatment with donation-based classes and co-branded retail items.
Xponential Fitness, a global franchisor of health and wellness brands, partnered with the American Cancer Society last month for National Cancer Survivors Month to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients and survivors across the U.S.
According to the ACS’s Cancer Facts & Figures 2024, the U.S. is expected to see over 2 million new cancer diagnoses this year, with more than 600,000 individuals projected to succumb to the disease. These sobering statistics underscore the critical importance of ongoing research, advocacy, and patient support in the fight against cancer.
Throughout June, Xponential Fitness brands — including Club Pilates, Pure Barre, StretchLab, CycleBar, YogaSix, Rumble Boxing, Body Fit Training, and AKT — offered donation-based classes and sold co-branded retail items. The proceeds from these initiatives were directed toward the ACS’ efforts in research, treatment, and resource provision for cancer patients.
“Fighting cancer is an incredibly important cause to the Xponential family,” said Sara Luna, president of Xponential Fitness. “Thousands of our members and studio teams are impacted by this awful disease every year, and by combining efforts with a great organization like the American Cancer Society, we can make a positive difference in these people’s lives.”
The Power of Physical Activity in Cancer Prevention and Recovery
Xponential’s involvement in this campaign aligns with growing evidence supporting the role of physical activity in both cancer prevention and recovery.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 to 100 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly for optimal health and chronic disease prevention.
The ACS reminds individuals focused on prevention and recovery that “being more physically active than usual, no matter what your level of activity, can have many health benefits. No matter what kind of activity you choose, the important thing is to get moving. Try to look for opportunities to be more active throughout your day.”
Beyond improving cardiovascular health and maintaining lean muscle mass, physical activity can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, the group fitness environment provided by Xponential Fitness studios offers a supportive community for individuals navigating the challenges of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship.
Tarik Ceric, a melanoma survivor, shared his experience of turning to fitness during his cancer journey. Diagnosed at 24, Ceric underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, facing side effects such as fatigue, skin problems, and mental health challenges.
He found solace and strength in exercise, explaining, “Fitness has always been my route toward health and relieving anxiety. I like working out with other people and helping them with their health. Fitness and health have always been my therapy.”
Xponential Fitness’s Participation
Xponential Fitness’s diverse portfolio of brands came together in a united front to support the ACS, each bringing its unique fitness modality to the cause.
CycleBar, the nation’s largest indoor cycling brand, pedaled for progress with special “CycleGives” classes, while its sister brand AKT got hearts pumping through dance-based cardio workouts. Both brands offered co-branded retail items, turning every purchase into an opportunity to contribute.
Pure Barre took a different approach, inviting members to “Tuck for a Cause” in donation classes. The brand added an extra incentive from June 15-23, offering double class points for participants. Beyond the studio, Pure Barre leveraged its digital platforms to share inspiring stories of cancer patients and survivors, creating a narrative of hope and resilience.
Rumble Boxing’s in-studio retail offerings and social media campaign further amplified the message of support for Cancer Survivors Month.
Club Pilates stretched its impact with “Pilates for Prevention.” YogaSix, meanwhile, hosted “Cancer Survivor Flow for a Cause” classes in mid-June. Both brands complemented in-studio efforts with co-branded retail items and social media awareness campaigns. StretchLab extended its support as well, proudly aligning itself with the ACS through targeted social media and email campaigns.
Body Fit Training featured a “Lift for Survivors” donation class, demonstrating that strength training can build both bodies and hope.
Across all brands, the message was clear: Every rep, every pose, every pedal stroke was an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. The goal was to raise funds but also awareness, creating a ripple effect of support that extends beyond the studio walls.