Charity via Cross Fit training

Columbiana Road is home to a new Cross Fit training facility that’s built philanthropy into its operating costs.

According to owner Chris Wade, Forge Fitness is partnering with Christ City Church, a mission center in Ensley that will serve the greater-Birmingham area when it opens in September. Wade said the facility plans on providing 10 percent of profits to the center to support its operation.

A former Clemson University football player and Georgia native, Wade partnered with Vestavia Hills resident Rich Penino to bring Cross Fit training to Columbiana. He said the training involves “constantly varied functional movement at high intensity” that focuses on the proper methods to complete daily tasks like climbing stairs or picking up children.

Forge Fitness currently offers classes at 5:30 a.m., 6:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Wade said the facility would soon offer a women’s class at 9:30 a.m. and another open class at 12:30 p.m. He added that the facility is offering discounted rates to its first 30 members.

Forge Fitness is located at 2112 Columbiana Road. For more, call 834-2304 or visit forgevestavia.com