Solving a need for space, CIMT invests in BeaverFit solutions for Army units
As the Holistic Health and Fitness initiative, or H2F, rolls out across the Army, units must overcome the hurdle of finding dedicated space to carry out their programs. BeaverFit and the U.S. Army’s Center for Initial Military Training have begun to solve that challenge together with a solution delivered to more than a dozen units this year. https://youtu.be/QyuCx7__w5Y?si=wbcl5ulv5zjSYC1K Nicknamed the CIMT SunPro, the solution consists of three components: BeaverFit Performance Locker A shipping container with anchored training rigs and secure storage BeaverFit Cardio Locker A container including off-grid cardio equipment and roll-up doors BeaverFit SunPro A tension fabric structure that creates a training space protected from the elements, with the option to add rubberized flooring and lifting platforms While the Army plans to resource more than 100 brigades with Soldier Performance Readiness Centers by 2030, in the meantime, the readiness of Soldiers and the success of unit-level H2F programs depend on quick solutions. Select units at Forts Bliss, Huachuca, Liberty, Jackson, Johnson, Drum, Campbell and Joint Base Lewis-McChord are the first to receive the new BeaverFit SunPros designed to create space for H2F activities. “It’s great to see that as units are being resourced for H2F, CIMT is ensuring this includes proper equipment and the space to utilize it,” said Jason Clark, training and education lead, BeaverFit. “Our goal is to develop environments alongside them in which those resources can be used effectively.” The desired environment called for an all-weather strength and conditioning asset that could accommodate personnel up to the company level. Most of the resourced units had used standalone BeaverFit Lockers to train, which offer suitable platoon-level strength training capabilities but lack weather protection and integrated conditioning assets. The specific SunPro and Locker configuration designed for CIMT provides all-weather coverage, strength and conditioning components, and – the biggest win, according to Clark – can be placed anywhere because it’s not Real Property. Instead of Soldiers needing to trek across the installation to a separate facility for a training session, the SunPro can be placed at the unit level, removing logistical barriers to training. “The SunPro creates an environment in the outdoor space that limits as many factors that could negatively influence a training session as possible,” he stated. And as the SunPros are delivered, CIMT is also funding training and education courses for select locations to empower small unit leaders to be force multipliers within the environment. “Space does not automatically equal an environment,” Clark explained. “The environment is human driven. Training and education sets an environment of organizational success versus chaos. Kudos to CIMT for leaning forward into providing space and training resources instead of waiting for it to be figured out at the unit level, and also, good on the coaches for continuing to do the most with what they have and scaling their mindset as the program grows.” As the Army’s mindset around physical training evolves, BeaverFit’s support evolves in step. “We don’t do this from a standpoint of ‘we know best;’ it’s a collaborative effort to receive feedback from the higher-level command, the experts on site, and the Soldiers on the ground,” Clark said. “It’s our goal to be the Army’s trusted partner. As they continue to require new capabilities, or as they encounter new barriers, we’ll work alongside them to create solutions that enable them to win.” In addition to delivering these SunPros and the accompanying training and education courses to CIMT, BeaverFit remains in the running for the Army’s SPRC contract. Whether supplying Lockers, AFT equipment, SunPros, SPRCs or other tactical training solutions, one thing is constant: BeaverFit continues to support and develop the Soldier Weapon System with innovative, purpose-built, requirements-based capabilities. Get in touch. BeaverFit is a defense contractor and the largest supplier of fitness equipment to the U.S. Armed Forces. We create custom expeditionary fitness and readiness equipment for every mission essential task: from portable container gyms to special operations subterranean trainers. Explore solutions Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
4 tips for creating outdoor training spaces
Looking to expand your training footprint outdoors but not sure where to start? Creating an outdoor training space is an exciting way to increase offerings while introducing the benefits of fresh air and sunlight. But creating the best experience for your members doesn’t mean simply taking an indoor rig, moving it outdoors and expecting people to carry equipment in and out of the facility — causing inconvenience, inventory nightmares and decreased longevity of your equipment. There is a strategy to a well-developed outdoor training space, and we’re here to offer four basic tips to get started. 1. Define your outcome Looking to increase throughput? Add new class offerings? Determining your goals is the first step of designing your outdoor training space. When it comes to designing an outdoor fitness space, lean into providing more of what your members are already using inside. If your strength room is constantly overcrowded, create a strength training space outdoors with weatherproof equipment and storage. If your functional training space is in high-demand, consider outside stations with outdoor-rated accessories for maximum training capabilities. Examples: Outdoor workout space at Club Northwest featuring a SunPro shelter, Shred Shed, 30′ rig, racks, turf and more; and outdoor workout space at Carbon Valley Parks and Recreation featuring a Shred Shed and 24′ rig. 2. Identify your location Where do you have underutilized space? Where you may see a parking lot or tennis court, we see a blank canvas. The parking lot If you have ample parking for members and redesignating some spaces would not pose an inconvenience, an outdoor training space can be created in your very own parking lot. With the addition of rubber or turf flooring along with custom colors and branding, you can turn a parking lot training space into a true extension of your facility. Old basketball or tennis courts If the basketball or tennis courts at your facility are no longer being used, or are underutilized, consider turning that space into a dedicated outdoor training zone. With custom flooring, outdoor-rated strength equipment and accessories, and lockable storage customized to reflect your colors and branding, your members will never realize that your high-quality outdoor training zone was once an old sports court. The roof If the structure of your facility allows for it, a rooftop training space creates an exciting new experience for members without extra real estate. Structural considerations will be important here, and you may find that the best solutions are freestanding training stations that do not require anchoring. Example: Rooftop workout space at Bay Club San Francisco featuring two freestanding Shred Sheds. 3. Select your equipment You can’t just take any piece of training equipment and place it outdoors. Most equipment is meant solely for indoor-use. In order for a product to be fully weatherproof, the steel should go through a superior weatherproofing process involving hot-dip galvanization and powder coating. Anything less is a recipe for rust, corrosion or other damage. You should also consider custom branding so the space looks like an extension of your indoor facility. Luckily, we do both. Examples: PGA West Golf Resort and Club featuring a BeaverFit Shred Shed, double Bay Unit and Gym Box. 4. Don’t forget storage Weatherproof, integrated storage solutions keep members from dragging equipment in and out of spaces, and increase longevity of your accessories. The equipment you select should include dedicated, lockable storage for all integrated accessories and components. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of your training gear growing legs and finding a new home. Examples: Plano Athletic Club and YMCA Middle Tennessee Performance Lockers. Get in touch Interested in expanding your training space to the outdoors? We can help. From storage and shelters to equipment and accessories, BeaverFit can outfit you with American-made, weatherproof solutions specific to your training needs, space and budget. Email Us Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
Oklahoma First Responder Wellness Division fosters holistic health through group exercise
The Oklahoma First Responder Wellness Division, or OKFRWD, is pioneering the way for first responders’ holistic well-being, using group fitness as a catalyst for deeper transformation – and BeaverFit equipment to conduct it. At the core of their mission lies one word: resiliency. Encompassing body, mind and spirit, the Division uses structured workouts and communal activities to not only promote healthier lifestyles, but to provide a platform for building trust and camaraderie. Danny Long, director of OKFRWD, called group fitness a bridge-builder. “It builds trust when you’re spending that amount of time together. Even if you’re not talking, even if you’re just there suffering through a workout together, it’s one of the best bridges for trust I can think of.” As a retired Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper, Long experienced firsthand the challenges faced by the first responder community, which extend far beyond physical dangers. While leading outdoor workouts with his team during the pandemic, he began noticing that physical fitness wasn’t the only thing coming out of the group exercise sessions. “I started keeping track of all the follow-up conversations post-workout,” he said. “What is counseling? What else can we do to improve our home life? Where can we get help financially? All these questions started coming in, and I knew it all had to be tied directly into one wellness program.” How a unique approach went beyond an equipment purchase A significant milestone in OKFRWD’s journey was the acquisition of 12 BeaverFit Performance Lockers and four Beyond Trailers, funded through the Department of Public Safety, making functional fitness more accessible for first responders throughout the state. The Performance Lockers create an outdoor training environment with a fully-loaded container gym, and the mobile fitness trailers bring a gym on wheels wherever it is needed – whether that be an event, a training, a conference, or a deployment. While enhancing physical fitness is indeed a primary objective, the ultimate goal is to foster a sense of community and connection among first responders, Long explained, which then opens the door for meaningful conversation and assistance in other areas of overall well-being. Along with the increased physical fitness component, OKFRWD integrated mental health seamlessly into its program, offering an hour of mental health training alongside prescribed workouts. This creates a unique opportunity for first responders to complete their state-mandated mental health training outside of a traditional classroom setting. Moreover, OKFRWD incorporated sleep treatment beds, neurological stimulation, financial classes tailored for first responders, and more, to their comprehensive approach to wellness. “What we’re really about is preventative maintenance versus needing a rescue when your house is on fire,” Long said. “The byproduct is a healthier, more capable first responder.” The impact of the initiative is palpable. Counselor workloads have quadrupled in response to increased demand, signaling a growing acceptance and utilization of mental health services among first responders. And the deployment of mobile fitness trailers has not only facilitated physical training on-the-go, but also served as a platform for mental health awareness and support. Planting a seed for future growth “Being able to help OKFRWD push this initiative and impact lives for the better goes right along with our mission at BeaverFit,” said CJ Kostranchuk, director of key accounts, BeaverFit. “Our motto is ‘Winning Matters’ – what matters here is the human life, and winning means being able to get them the resources they need. We’re excited to be a part of something much bigger than ourselves.” Now, other state agencies are reaching out to OKFRWD for guidance on how they can start similar initiatives, and how they can receive funding for their own BeaverFit equipment. “The holistic approach – that’s the funding right there,” Long explained, noting there are government grants focused on health and wellness for the first responder community. “Focus on health and wellness. Yes, BeaverFit is a huge part of this and why it’s working, but it’s not just about working out.” “What we’re doing here collectively is planting a seed, and over the next few years we’re going to see that seed grow and replicate elsewhere,” he added. “It’s going to be a game changer,” Kostranchuk agreed. Learn more about the OKFRWD mission or get in touch by visiting their website, and see how they’re putting their BeaverFit units in action by following them on Instagram. Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
Precor launches new functional strength training line powered by BeaverFit
Precor, trusted fitness solution provider to more than 14,000 global facilities, has selected BeaverFit, the world’s largest supplier of fitness equipment to the U.S. and NATO militaries, to design and manufacture their new functional training line. “We are thrilled to announce the launch of this new product line in partnership with BeaverFit,” shared Adam Hubbard, Precor director of product and marketing. “BeaverFit’s extensive experience in developing purpose-built, functional training equipment that withstands the toughest environments, combined with their expertise in premium design and manufacturing, made them a perfect fit for Precor.” “They have been exceptional partners throughout the development process, and we are excited to introduce these new products to our customers this spring,” he said. For Precor, this new line brings together the quality, performance and innovation that customers have always trusted, with the proven reliability and rugged designs of BeaverFit. This powerful combination creates a solution for customers that will meet the rapidly evolving strength and functional training needs of modern fitness facilities. “We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership with the Precor team,” echoed Nick Vay, VP of commercial sales, BeaverFit. “The synergy between our brands is remarkable, and we deeply appreciate the chance to provide our world-class functional training solutions to support their outstanding team and customers across the globe.” Originating from a family-owned steel fabrication business in the U.K., BeaverFit gained prominence in the early 2010s by supplying custom-outfitted container gyms to military organizations. With rapid expansion into commercial fitness, BeaverFit now empowers individuals worldwide to achieve their fitness goals with versatile training solutions. What to expect This partnership introduces an impressive selection of more than 10 product options to Precor’s catalog, showcasing space-efficient functional training solutions with integrated storage. These solutions are meticulously designed to create purpose-built zones for functional exercises, ensuring that other strength areas remain open for primary lifts. Fitness Post: The most compact of the new offerings offers training and storage capabilities for a single user in small spaces. Bay Unit: This solution raises the bar with multiple functional training modalities in a single- or multiple-unit station, with various exercise and integrated storage configurations available. Bridge Unit: Featuring a 15-foot span of monkey bars to connect storage and exercise stations, this multi-user, multi-modality training station also provides neatly integrated organization for all accessories. These solutions will be available throughout the U.S and internationally in select countries. Each product goes beyond spec with industry leading steel, in keeping with BeaverFit’s core promise to use only the highest quality materials sourced and manufactured in America and Britain. “At the core of our company is our commitment to domestic sourcing and manufacturing, a cornerstone that guarantees the quality and reliability of our products. This pledge extends to our partners, ensuring their satisfaction,” Vay said. “Teaming up with Precor fills us with excitement as we embark on a journey to introduce our superior training solutions to a global audience.” Precor x BeaverFit Visit the Precor website for more information on this new line of offerings powered by BeaverFit. Click Here About Precor Precor, a wholly owned subsidiary of Peloton and headquartered in Woodinville, WA, has been a pioneer in delivering fitness experiences for commercial customers and exercisers for more than 40 years. Precor serves more than 100 countries worldwide with offices in the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Precor products and services span across all major categories, including cardio, strength, functional fitness, and connected fitness solutions. Precor segments include commercial clubs/facilities and the verticals of Hospitality, Multi-Family Housing, Corporate, and Education. For more information, visit www.Precor.com. About BeaverFit BeaverFit is a global leader in world-class indoor, outdoor and mobile training solutions to empower individuals to achieve their mission however they train, wherever they train. As the trusted partner in creating training capabilities, BeaverFit supports all branches of the U.S. military, NATO forces, universities, fitness clubs and Fortune 500 companies with American- and British-made equipment and accessories. With in-house design engineers and manufacturing, BeaverFit takes on the challenge of creating custom, turnkey equipment solutions that meet the specific space, needs and training requirements of partners. For more information, visit www.beaverfitusa.com. Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
BeaverFit selected to produce Soldier Performance Readiness Center design
The Army needs a cost-effective solution to deploy Soldier Performance Readiness Centers, or SPRCs, across the globe, and BeaverFit is ready to answer the call. The veteran-owned and operated company introduced their design concept for the SPRC at the AUSA Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington D.C. in October. Notification of official selection for Phase II of the Army Applications Laboratory SPRC contract supporting the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness, or H2F, system occurred in late September. “With the solution we’re proposing, Army brigades will be equipped to optimize warfighter readiness and fully implement H2F,” said Mike Taylor, BeaverFit USA co-founder. “We’re excited to continue serving the Army’s most important weapons system — Soldiers — with the capabilities they need to win every day.” A formal training environment for H2F The SPRC provides a formal training environment for the H2F ecosystem to thrive, informing and shaping Army training culture. These facilities should – at a minimum – include an area for physical training, and separate spaces for education, rehabilitation and cognitive performance, in order to enable cross-domain integration of physical and non-physical readiness. As the Army determines who will build these SPRCs at more than 100 brigades worldwide, rapid construction of the facility itself is only one piece of the equation – the solution must also provide a solid framework for addressing throughput, output and scalability. The BeaverFit design Dr. Chris Frankel, head of human performance innovation for BeaverFit, walked AUSA attendees through concept renderings showcasing the various zones for warming up, strength training, functional training, work capacity and reconditioning. “Taking safety, effectiveness and throughput into consideration, we modified the linear approach of the zones,” Frankel said, pointing to a rendering depicting the organized cluster of zones enclosed within an indoor track. “Everybody’s training in the same place with an easy transition from one area to another. This enables Soldiers to get a safe and effective workout, and gives the performance teams a good line of sight and control.” The interior track enables access to different zones so Soldiers don’t have to cross over one zone to get to another. “As we move forward, we might realize that having high throughput means not everybody can hit every zone, every day, so being able to modulate that movement pattern is important,” he explained. * Interior renderings not shown due to open competition period Maximizing throughput Brian Carey, head of product at BeaverFit, joined Frankel in explaining the throughput analysis the company performed when designing the space and associated equipment. “Bespoke equipment solutions help optimize and achieve the desired throughput range that is part of the contract requirements,” Carey said. “Working off a 500-person baseline helped us inform the unique solutions from the equipment side, which is one of our core competencies as a business.” Known for their ability to create custom requirements-based fitness solutions, BeaverFit adapted equipment for the SPRCs to align coaching lanes, incorporating exercises like posterior chain work and functional and accessory movements on a single-rack system to maximize transition efficiency from station to station within a zone. “As the equipment solutions are an integrated part of the overall design, our next phase will include robust simulation modeling to meet the required throughput of the facility,” Carey explained. “The analysis will be used to ensure we are validating our hypotheses around the equipment and achieving the desired results.” If BeaverFit is one of the selectees to a Phase III award, the company could be part of building more than 100 SPRCs by 2030. “Bring it on. We’re ready,” Taylor said. To learn more about the SPRC design and process, contact the BeaverFit team. Click Here Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
Club Northwest, others expand outdoor training spaces with BeaverFit
As the demand for outdoor fitness grows, commercial gyms seek functional, durable solutions for their members. A 2,500-square-foot covered outdoor training space in Grants Pass, Oregon, is the latest – and perhaps the biggest – to join the outdoor movement. The largest known open-air training space of its kind “Our partnership with BeaverFit once again breaks the mold,” said Jeff Keller, president, Club Northwest. “Our members expressed their desire for an outdoor workout facility… For us, BeaverFit was the only choice.” Club Northwest partnered with BeaverFit to build the largest known open-air training space of its kind for a commercial fitness facility in America. The facility features a 70 x 36-foot BeaverFit SunPro, a custom Shred Shed for storage, a 30-foot modular rig, a 12-foot bouldering wall and more than 1,000 square feet of athletic turf. https://vimeo.com/884460858/ba044036b6?share=copy “Working with BeaverFit was an awesome process – they just got it,” said Jesse Sallas, director of people and programming, Club Northwest. “They’ve been creating outdoor training facilities like this for years for the military, so it made sense for us to partner with them.” Now, in addition to the vast offerings Club Northwest already provides to its roughly 10,000 members, gym-goers get to enjoy outdoor strength and functional training with a robust equipment and accessory package that is built to withstand the toughest climates. “We were stoked to work with Club Northwest on this outdoor space,” added Brett Grossman, director of sales, BeaverFit. “They came to us wanting to create something that didn’t exist yet – something that was accommodating and inclusive for all their members. It’s been awesome to see that come to life.” Outdoor expansions across the country And Club Northwest isn’t the only one. Other recent outdoor expansions supported by BeaverFit at commercial gyms include Plano Athletic Club in Texas, the Bay Club in California, Physiq Fitness in Oregon, and the St. James in Virginia. Plano Athletic Club’s outdoor expansion includes a storage locker and modular rig. The outdoor solutions at Bay Club and Physiq Fitness each include custom Shred Sheds and modular rigs, with Bay Club opting for a dual Shred Shed rooftop training space overlooking the San Francisco Bay. The St. James, a 450,000-square-foot facility offering sports, lifestyle and wellness experiences, invested in a Beyond Trailer 20’ in order to expand outdoor offerings to youth athletes. “The common denominator in all of these projects is that we identified the need, and we built upon that need according to the specific space and budget requirements of each location,” Grossman said. “Every space is different, that’s why we don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions.” Grossman explained that in many cases, the need goes beyond having a tennis court, a track or a couple of pull-up bars; what people want is “a dedicated outdoor training space where they can do the same type of fitness activities they’d normally be doing indoors.” “Fitness activities outdoors have numerous benefits that can’t be achieved indoors. Not only does your physical health improve, but so does your mental health,” he continued. “When you do small or large group training outside there tends to be a greater element of ‘play’ that historically has only been achieved through organized sports and recreation. And when people are having fun, they tend to work out harder and more consistently.” Whether a custom outdoor rig, a shaded strength training platform, a secure storage locker, or an all-weather protected training space, BeaverFit designs custom solutions to fit unique requirements and bring brand visions to life. Wondering what an outdoor expansion could look like for your facility? Get in touch with us today. Explore outdoor solutions Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
How BeaverFit is helping the Army operationalize H2F
The Holistic Health and Fitness initiative created a paradigm shift in Soldier readiness with its introduction in 2020. Once the H2F operating concept was released, Army units around the world had to overcome the obstacle of creating training spaces that met commander’s intent without obvious solutions. According to the Army, the ultimate vision of H2F is to provide each brigade with an H2F campus to include a Soldier Performance Readiness Center, AFT testing lanes and track, a terrain running course, sheltered strength training racks, and containerized strength equipment. Enter BeaverFit, with space and time saving solutions for all of the above. “We’re the defense contractor for the Soldier Weapon System,” said Michael Taylor, BeaverFit USA co-founder and veteran. “We’re here to surround that weapon system with the equipment and facilities needed to optimize them for resiliency and lethality under any mission essential task. That’s our clear vision.” “We’re not a commercial fitness company with solutions that have been designed for someone else that we’re trying to push to the military,” added Alex Roodhouse, BeaverFit USA co-founder and veteran. “We’re listening to the military’s requirements and designing solutions based on what is actually needed in the field.” Let’s take a look: Soldier Performance Readiness Center Army Need: A dedicated facility for units to facilitate and foster their H2F programs. BeaverFit Solution: As seen at Fort Jackson with the recently opened Drill Sergeant Timothy Kay SPRC, BeaverFit has the capability to convert unused indoor spaces into world-class human performance facilities for individual or group training and recovery sessions, along with specialized office areas for physical therapy, nutrition counseling and other H2F programs. And while converting underutilized indoor space is one way Army brigades are creating their SPRC facilities, BeaverFit also offers the capability to create new, standalone, fully-enclosed structures to fulfill Soldier readiness needs. The appearance of DoD imagery does not imply or constitute federal endorsement. Terrain running course Army Need: Courses that are designed to assess, develop and refine strength, endurance and responsiveness through a series of obstacles and varied terrain. BeaverFit Solution: BeaverFit offers custom created elements and course designs to improve mission-specific cardiovascular conditioning while actively engaging the mind and body of Soldiers, as seen at the Devil’s Field Obstacle Course on Fort Liberty. The appearance of DoD imagery does not imply or constitute federal endorsement. AFT testing lanes Army Need: A consistent environment to perform the Army Fitness Test at any time of year. BeaverFit Solution: The AFT testing field by BeaverFit creates a consistent and standardized testing environment, utilizing performance-grade turf to reduce the risk of training injuries. To enable year round AFT activities, BeaverFit also provides a shelter around the field to offer protection from the elements. BeaverFit AFT Storage Lockers are the final piece to the turnkey AFT testing environment. An open-air SunPro covers the 12-lane AFT field for U.S. Army South at Joint Base San Antonio from unrelenting sun, whereas a fully-enclosed structure with heating protects Soldiers using the 5-lane AFT field at Fort Devens from brutal Massachusetts winters. The appearance of DoD imagery does not imply or constitute federal endorsement. Sheltered strength training racks Army Need: Sheltered strength training racks to create a year round outdoor training area and while maintaining longevity of outdoor equipment. BeaverFit Solution: The tension fabric BeaverFit SunPro creates an environment up to 15° F cooler than in direct sunlight and can be fully engineered to meet local wind, snow and seismic loads. The SunPro is mounted to BeaverFit Performance Lockers or to the ground, allowing battalions to build the ideal human performance training facility that meets their space and requirements. Containerized strength equipment Last but certainly not least, our flagship product. Army Need: Self-contained fitness units that allow training to be conducted anywhere the containers are placed. BeaverFit Solution: Known by the Army as the ‘gym-in-a-box,’ or simply as ‘The BeaverFit’, BeaverFit Performance Lockers are standard shipping containers custom-fabricated to include anchored training rigs and secure storage. Filled with outdoor-rated training accessories, they create a multi-modality training center that accommodates up to 90 people at once. Additionally, BeaverFit offers the AFT Storage Locker, specifically designed to hold the exact amount of AFT equipment required per lane, and the mobile AFT Storage Trailer. The appearance of DoD imagery does not imply or constitute federal endorsement. As the Army recently approved accelerating the fielding of H2F equipment and staff to 15 brigades per year, creating these solutions is a paramount priority for Army leaders. From standalone and mobile training solutions to indoor space conversions and facility builds from the ground-up, BeaverFit is creating new and innovative ways to help Soldiers train for whatever they need to prepare for, wherever they need to train. Discover the tools that power the Soldier Weapon System and learn how to operationalize your installation for H2F. Learn more Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
BeaverFit to host second Human Performance Pavilion at AUSA 2023
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The AUSA Human Performance Pavilion powered by BeaverFit will take place at the AUSA 2023 Annual Meeting and Exposition here Oct. 9-11. The pavilion will showcase premier solutions to train and maintain the Soldier Weapon System, and support Army leaders in operationalizing H2F across the physical, mental, nutritional, sleep and spiritual readiness domains. “We’re excited to be the presenting sponsor of the AUSA Human Performance Pavilion for the second year in a row,” said Alex Roodhouse, co-founder of BeaverFit USA. “This year’s pavilion is a must visit for anyone looking to discover, experience and discuss the tools that power the Soldier Weapon System.” The pavilion will feature: + A mini-Soldier Performance Readiness Center training space showcasing strength, cardio and recovery equipment + Leading human performance industry vendors highlighting solutions to support H2F + Panels with industry experts speaking to various readiness and H2F topics Join us for the following events: + Oct. 9, 3:30-4 p.m. –Integrating technology into Soldier training and readiness + Oct. 10, 11:30 a.m.-12:10 p.m. — Introducing the Soldier Performance Readiness Center + Oct. 10, 3-3:40 p.m. — H2F Staffing: Stories from the Field + Oct. 10, 3:45-4:15 p.m. — Meet & greet book signing with retired SEAC John Troxell + Oct. 11, 10-10:40 a.m. — H2F support for under-resourced brigades BeaverFit is a veteran owned and operated business, and the largest supplier of fitness and tactical training solutions to the U.S. military. BeaverFit continues to innovate human performance equipment and facilities to optimize the resiliency and lethality of the Soldier Weapon System. Joining BeaverFit in the pavilion are vendors who provide industry leading solutions to support operationalizing H2F at the individual, unit, and installation level. These vendor partners include: + Concept2 + DFND + DripDrop + GAP Solutions + GORUCK + Hyperice + Oura + PLAE + Q-Collar Brainpro + Smartabase + Sparta Science + Volt + Warrior Performance Platform + Wave Neuro + Woodway “In coordination with industry partners and Army CIMT, we’re looking forward to showcasing how the human performance industry can help Army leaders operationalize H2F at their installations,” said Mike Taylor, co-founder of BeaverFit USA. Discover the tools that power the Soldier Weapon System and learn how to operationalize your installation for H2F by visiting the AUSA Human Performance Pavilion in Booth 2425. Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
5 ways to upgrade your BeaverFit container gym
Training requirements can change. Your BeaverFit equipment can change with them. If you already have a Performance Locker, you don’t need to start from scratch when your mission or training needs evolve. Consider what would improve the training environment. Would more equipment allow more people to train at once? Do miss out on outdoor training days due to rain or high temperatures? Do you want to add new training modalities? Depending on your needs, space and budget, here are a few ways to level up your Locker and upgrade your training experience: 1. Replace and replenish equipment Did some of your kettlebells grow legs and walk away? Did your buddies get too Dam Strong and now you need more bumper plates? We’ve got you covered. Replenishing your outdoor-rated training accessories is only a call or email away. 2. Expand training capabilities with add-ons BeaverFit partners with innovative companies to create new training stations for your Locker. This includes: + Lifting platforms from American Platforms + Cable training system from Ancore + Infinity rope from Marpo + Weighted pulley system from Surplus Strength + Strength/resistance bands from Stroops + And more Contact us for a full list of available add-ons and learn how they can increase strength and functional training opportunities in your setup. 3. Add another Locker Need more training stations for additional personnel? Are you looking to incorporate different elements, like cardio equipment or recovery tools? Consider adding another Locker, with four purpose-built configurations to choose from: + Performance Locker: Our flagship product with external rigs running one or both sides of the container and integrated storage. + Cardio Locker: Multiple roll-up doors for air flow and off-grid cardio equipment. + Recovery Locker: Recovery specific external rigs, roll-up doors and a custom interior including steel benches with integrated storage and shelving for foam rollers and yoga mats. + Storage Locker: Roll-up doors and integrated storage. Whether it’s more training stations, more storage, or new modalities to enhance your human performance environment, we’ll be sure you get what you need. 4. Add a container-mounted shelter Don’t let inclement weather determine whether or not you get outside for a workout. The BeaverFit SunPro is an open-ended structure offering protection from the elements, allowing for more training days and longevity of equipment. It creates a training environment up to 15° F cooler than in direct sunlight, and can be fully engineered to meet local wind, snow and seismic loads. The SunPro can be added to new or existing Lockers, or be mounted to the ground – we’ll help you find the best solution to go along with what you already have. 5. Build a container-based Inclined Skills Trainer Push the limits with real training for real readiness. Turn otherwise flat terrain into an environment that supports incline-based training. BeaverFit Inclined Skills Trainers are purpose-built to assess, enhance and refine strength, endurance and responsiveness, and can be built atop existing Performance Lockers. Get in touch For those with a mission that matters, we create unique training environments that enable you to win. Let’s build on what you have to create the space you need. Email Us Share this… FacebookFacebook Save Twitter
Beyond the uniform: Former special operator leads innovation at BeaverFit
On paper, it might not make sense how someone could directly transition from 22 years of special operations missions to leading a multi-national product innovation team at one of the fastest growing defense contractors and commercial fitness companies in the world. Yet, that’s exactly what Brian Carey did when he joined BeaverFit, the largest supplier of fitness and tactical training solutions to U.S. and NATO militaries. Carey’s transition from active military service to private-sector success wasn’t automatic. Like many veterans, especially those with a special operations or combat background, Carey wasn’t sure how he would find purpose and fulfillment once he took off the uniform. The transition from a life of service and sacrifice to the life of a civilian can be a struggle for many veterans. At a glance, Carey’s journey is a success story: a highly-skilled former special operator finds a perfect fit in private industry and rapidly rises to a leadership position. But reality is never that simple, and Carey had to overcome both internal and external challenges and doubts to make it to where he is today. Military service Like many combat veterans from the last two decades of expeditionary warfare, Carey joined a pre-9/11 military, enlisting in the Navy in 1999 as an aviation rescue swimmer. During his enlisted career, he responded to three significant rescue missions. Their impact shaped his intrinsic desire to help others – a theme that would follow him throughout his life. In 2001, Carey applied to become an Air Force pararescueman but was denied due to service obligations in the Navy. This drove him to work harder, earning a commission in the Navy and ultimately being selected for the Air Force pararescue community as an officer in 2008. Throughout his career in pararescue and Air Force Special Tactics he completed eight deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and Africa – seven of which were combat deployments. Carey saw the path to officership as a way to impact those that worked for and with him. “I’ve always wanted to help others grow and be successful at accomplishing their goals, both personally and professionally,” he said. And he did. Carey went on to become commander at the pararescue training course at Kirtland Air Force Base. “Being there to train, mentor and develop candidates to serve as the next generation of pararescuemen and combat rescue officers was rewarding, not only from a leadership perspective, but also because of the things we were able to do to improve our training infrastructure and curriculum.” Introduction to BeaverFit In 2016, in one of those fortuitous moments that can redefine and shape a life path, Carey met Michael Taylor, co-founder of BeaverFit USA, while on a recruiting trip at the CrossFit Games. Upon learning about BeaverFit’s capabilities, Carey told Taylor the pararescue school had several requirements and invited him out to see how BeaverFit could support. The first project entailed a major upgrade to their gym: converting the indoor space to make it more functional while optimizing throughput, and adding an outdoor space with racks, rigs, turf and sun protection to enable year-round outdoor training. Next – what Carey considers one of his legacy projects – was an obstacle course. He worked closely with unit members to procure and build an obstacle course about a quarter mile in length that “essentially jump-started that product line for BeaverFit.” After the success of the gym rebuild and the obstacle course installation, Carey initiated a roadmap of different projects with BeaverFit, including a tactical training facility to simulate military operations in urban terrain and close quarters combat, and the first BeaverFit rappelling and training tower in the United States. Transitioning from active duty After two decades of serving at a high operational tempo, Carey recounted that the bad experiences shaped him as much as the good. He struggled through the loss of friends and others in combat, the murder of his commander, the survivor’s guilt that followed, and the stress that came with being a special operations leader – knowing his actions determined whether or not someone came home to their family. In 2020, Brian decided to leave active duty and transition to the National Guard. However, not long after being selected to command a special tactics squadron at Portland Air National Guard Base, he realized it wasn’t the change he needed for his mental health and started focusing on what his next move would be. He reconnected with Taylor, who invited him to the BeaverFit headquarters to chat about possible opportunities. Carey said the idea of leaving the military was hard, but he realized that he couldn’t give 110% to the job anymore and “that’s not me,” he said. “If I’m doing something it’s got to be at that level, otherwise it’s time to do something else.” He recalled a good friend saying, “Don’t you jump out of planes for a living? Put the parachute on and get out of the plane.” So metaphorically, he did. He retired from the military and joined the BeaverFit team to oversee custom product development for indoor facility conversions and tactical equipment, and began working toward a master’s degree in business administration. Landing at BeaverFit “As I was making the transition, I really focused on my interests and my purpose, and my purpose is pretty clear: I’m here to help others. That was solidified many times over my career,” he said. “And my interests are all around physical and human performance,” he continued. “So matching both of those is how I determined that retiring was right for me, and obviously arriving at BeaverFit was the right place for me.” He was comfortable at BeaverFit in terms of driving efforts and understanding what it takes to help a customer solve the problems they’re dealing with, but there were a lot of things he had to learn about how the company operates, he said. He had to shift his vernacular from one language to another, “putting on a little bit more business flavor rather than heavy