KNOXVILLE – In-Shape Fitness (In-Shape) and Tennessee-based National Fitness are joining together for the 11th year of the Fights Cancer Campaign, an effort to raise funding for cancer research and supportive services. The goal is to raise $150,000 from October 1-31. Events include racquetball and pickleball tournaments, social media activations and other opportunities.

“We all have been touched by cancer in some way and our Fights Cancer campaign is an opportunity to transform our shared experiences into collective action for hope,” said Kris Mulkey, Chief Marketing Officer of In-Shape Fitness and National Fitness. “Over the past decade, our members, our team and our communities have shown incredible support, proving that we’re not just building strong bodies, but also a strong fight against cancer, one member and one dollar at a time.”

In-Shape has held the annual Fights Cancer Campaign for 10 years raising over $1 million so far. This is the first year its sister club, National Fitness, is joining the effort. Members of both clubs and the general community can participate and contribute to this important cause in multiple ways, including:

• Enter Fight Cancer Pickleball and Racquetball Tournaments: In-Shape will host Fights Cancer pickleball or racquetball tournaments with proceeds supporting the cause. Open to everyone.
• Buy Paper Kettlebells: These symbolic campaign staples can be purchased at any In-Shape or National Fitness club, with every dollar contributing to the fundraising goal. Open to everyone.
• Join Fitness and Wellness Events: Participate in special events at In-Shape and National Fitness clubs, where proceeds will go directly to cancer research. Open to members only.
• New Membership Donations: In-Shape and National Fitness will donate a dollar for every new member that joins from Oct 1-31.
• Social Media Participation: For every public social media post using the hashtag #InShapeFightsCancer or #NationalFitnessFightsCanter, a dollar will be donated to the campaign.
• Sponsorships: Local businesses can join the fight by becoming campaign sponsors.

Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States despite a decrease over the past three decades. Funds raised through the initiative will support vital services such as free cancer education, emotional support for those diagnosed, and free lodging for patients and caregivers who must travel for treatment. Additionally, contributions will fuel cutting-edge cancer research at the national level, helping to advance prevention, detection and treatment.

“In-Shape and National Fitness’ commitment to fighting cancer shows that the fitness community can be a powerful ally in creating a world without cancer,” said Alexis Padilla, Executive Director Sacramento for the American Cancer Society. “They are not only raising critical funds to support lifesaving research and patient programs, but also inspiring others to take action and prioritize wellness. We are honored to continue to partner with them in this important fight.”

To learn more about the Fights Cancer campaign and discover additional ways to support, please visit www.inshape.com/fight-cancer or  www.nationalfitness.com/fight-cancer and follow the hashtags #InShapeFightsCancer or #NationalFitnessFightsCancer on social media.

ABOUT IN-SHAPE FITNESS
In-Shape Fitness has 63 full-service, conveniently located health clubs spanning the state of California where everybody and every body can find something they love. At our clean, spacious clubs, you can challenge yourself in the best studio fitness classes, be motivated in small group or personal training sessions, recover in the sauna, play Pickleball, or hang by the pool with friends and family. Plus, childcare is available at most clubs. At In-Shape Fitness, you'll move, you'll progress, and you'll connect as you build a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

ABOUT NATIONAL FITNESS
National Fitness has 7 full-service clubs across Knoxville, Tennessee, offering the very best in fitness, wellness, and community. With resort-style pools, top-tier equipment, and a full schedule of inspiring group fitness classes, there’s something for everyone. You can push yourself in small group or personal training sessions, recharge in the sauna, or connect with friends on the courts and in the clubs. Plus, kids love our summer camps and family-friendly activities. More than just a gym, National Fitness is Knoxville’s unparalleled destination to move more, to live better.