How To Make Your CrossFit Affiliate a Welcoming Space

The Underground PDX founder Scott Bradley shares tips for success when working with a diverse population.

Scott Bradley runs a nonprofit CrossFit affiliate in one of the most diverse suburbs in Oregon, serving youth ages 11 to 17. Within one mile of The Underground PDX there are 88 languages spoken with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and ethnic groups who follow many different religions.

As a pastor, Scott is a devout Christian, but he knows in order to best serve the youth in the community he needs to put the focus on providing a place for fitness, mentors, community, and resources. 

“We love people for who they are,” Scott said of his philosophy. 

He doesn’t bring up faith in the CrossFit classes, although if a young person asks for more information or seems interested, he will invite them into their faith community. 

“We try to keep a really safe space there for everyone and then if they want to come to the church service or go to a Bible study or something, it's offered by invitation,” Scott said.

As a gym or CrossFit affiliate owner it might be tempting to share your strongly-held beliefs with your members. However, an approach based on acceptance will result in a bigger and stronger community, as Scott learned firsthand. 

Patience and Love

A few years ago a young Muslim girl who lived in the neighborhood began coming to The Underground PDX’s CrossFit classes. Her father, who was very devout, often accompanied her and tried to engage Scott and the other coaches in religious debate. He also wanted to make sure they weren’t inviting his daughter to Bible studies. He was concerned and suspicious, worried his daughter was being exposed to teaching that went against his faith.

Over the years, the girl kept attending the CrossFit classes. Scott said she had a number of mental health challenges but she worked hard and found she loved fitness and the friends she made in the classes. Recently, just before the family decided to move to Texas, “the most beautiful thing happened,” Scott said. 

The father came into The Underground PDX to talk to Gwenna, Scott’s wife. 

“He told my wife, ‘I just have to thank you guys because this has been the best thing for our daughter. She loves coming here, she loves working out. Her friends are here. You guys have done such a wonderful job. Her mental health has gotten much better, working out, giving her something to focus on,’” Scott said the man told Gwenna. 

Gwenna’s response was that they were there to love his kid and create a safe space. His reaction, after years of suspicion, was validating for Scott.

“We realized, okay, what we're doing is really beautiful, and it is true across all belief systems that what we're doing is just changing lives,” Scott said. 

Fitness First

Scott said people often ask him how he creates a space for all these different backgrounds and religions. 

He tells them the answer is simple.

“The language is love. If you love people and focus on the things that unite us instead of divide us — when it comes to humanity, that's what matters,” he said.  

The beauty of fitness, Scott said, is that it provides a venue where different people can come together and connect. This approach will help you reach more people, bringing health, fitness, and community to a wider audience.

About Author, Hilary Achauer

Hilary is a renowned fitness business writer, marketing content writer, and journalist. She’s written content for start-ups, entrepreneurs, executive coaches, wellness providers, gyms, and CrossFit. Her focus is always on telling the best story with a clear, compelling style and being able to engage readers, bring in new customers, or build an audience.