Fitness Union – November Newsletter
Community • Connection • Meaningful Movement
Hi everyone,
As we move into the heart of the season and begin reflecting on the year behind us, I’m feeling an enormous amount of gratitude for each of you. This community has navigated big transitions, held each other through change, and continued showing up with depth, care, and curiosity.
Here’s what’s been happening at Fitness Union—and what’s ahead.
Honoring Our Transition & Celebrating Coach Melanie
This past season brought a significant transition for our community with the loss of Coach Chris. For many—especially those who trained closely with him—his departure was deeply felt. Chris helped shape the early culture of Fitness Union, and the grief of his absence revealed just how meaningful our relationships here truly are.
In the midst of that transition, Coach Melanie quietly became the steady anchor we needed. She stepped in with openness, care, and a willingness to learn, helping us stabilize during a time when recruitment felt uncertain. Her presence softened the impact of our loss and provided continuity when we needed it most.
Over these months, Melanie has discovered how much she loves being part of this community. She hopes to continue guiding the cohorts she has taken on and is excited about supporting our growth as Fitness Union continues to evolve. We’re so grateful for her heart, leadership, and dedication.
Welcoming Possibility: New Connections from a Neighboring Gym
As many of you know, a nearby gym recently closed its doors. In the wake of that closure, a few trainers have found themselves without a home base. We’ve had the opportunity to connect with two of them, and each brings something unique, skillful, and aligned with the kind of mindful, community-centered training we value.
We’re not rushing the process, but the early conversations have been promising. If things continue to feel aligned, we may welcome one or both of them in the new year. Their presence could add new energy, new specialties, and more spaciousness for members to receive personalized support.
When one door closes, another often opens—and we’re feeling those possibilities.
Community in Action: Our Event with Gym Space Equity
We recently hosted an event with Gym Space Equity, and it was so much fun! It’s been a while since we’ve held an event at the studio, and it felt deeply meaningful to open our doors in this way again. Gym Space Equity is a nonprofit whose mission is to increase access, equity, and inclusivity within fitness spaces—an alignment that felt natural and important.
We had 11 members join us. Sukho—our onsite LMT—led a fantastic educational talk on fascia, its role in the body, myth-busting, and tools for creating ease. Afterward, all four coaches offered a hands-on squat workshop, giving personalized one-on-one coaching to each participant.
Carioca Bowls generously donated snacks for our post-workshop social time. It felt nourishing to collaborate, connect, and move together as a community.
If you missed it, don’t worry—more events like this are on the horizon!
Holiday Schedule & Thanksgiving Movement Party
Don’t forget—on Thanksgiving morning (Thursday, Nov 27) we’ll be hosting a family-friendly workout at 9am! It’s always a sweet way to begin the holiday with movement and connection. Depending on attendance and weather, we may head outside or create some indoor movement play.
Got a preference? Share it on the dry erase board at the studio.
For winter holidays, we’ll be closed on:
Dec 24 – Christmas Eve
Dec 25 – Christmas Day
Dec 31 – New Year’s Eve
Jan 1 – New Year’s Day
A meaningful milestone: this is our first year being able to compensate our coaches for their holiday time off—a huge step toward sustainability and honoring the people who make this community what it is.
Membership Adjustment Beginning December 1
Beginning December 1, you’ll see a small increase of about $10/month (3.49%) depending on your membership. This adjustment specifically covers the transaction fees charged by PayPal. The business has absorbed these fees for years, but with rising costs—including an annual 5% rent increase—we need to make a few thoughtful shifts to stay sustainable.
We also understand that many people are navigating financial insecurity, job instability, and rising costs. We remain committed to supporting members during hard times and will continue to offer sliding scale options whenever possible.
If you have questions about your membership, please reach out to Khalila.
Member Spotlight: Daniel Durham of Durham Construction
One of the things that makes Fitness Union so special is the incredible talent within our community. We want to continue uplifting and supporting our members in meaningful ways.
This month, we’re highlighting Daniel Durham, a long-time member of the 7am cohort who has been with us since the garage gym days. Daniel is a business owner and highly skilled contractor whose craftsmanship and attention to detail are truly exceptional.
His company, Durham Construction, is now opening its books to new clients for Q1—so if you’re considering a remodel or home project, you’re in wonderful hands.
Check out Daniel’s work:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/durhamconstructionpdx/
(Insert flier below)
We love celebrating the brilliance and creativity of our members. If you’re interested in being featured in a future Member Spotlight, let us know!
Closing
Thank you, truly, for being part of Fitness Union. This community continues to grow—not just in numbers, but in depth, connection, and shared purpose. We’re grateful for every rep, every conversation, and every moment you choose to show up for yourself and each other.
Here’s to a season of connection, care, and meaningful movement.
With gratitude,
Kim & The Fitness Union Team
Kim Stout, Founder of Fitness Union
