Local News

Ease back in: Fun, local ways to restart your fitness routine

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Between indulgent meals, packed calendars, and a well-earned pause from routine, the holidays have a way of nudging fitness goals to the back burner. As the new year settles in, getting back into the groove doesn’t have to mean returning to the same old workouts or forcing yourself into a rigid routine. This season, local studios, gyms, and wellness spaces are offering fresh, creative ways to get moving—think unconventional classes, community-driven challenges, and experiences that make fitness feel exciting again. Whether you’re easing back in or looking for a whole new approach, these unique local options might be just the motivation you need to lace up, show up, and start strong.
Vertical Movement & Climbing
For a challenging full-body workout that tests both physical strength and mental problem-solving, the local climbing scene offers a standout alternative.
Experience state-of-the-art indoor climbing at The Triangle Rock Club Fayetteville, located at 5213 Raeford Rd. Perfect for all skill levels, the facility boasts expansive bouldering walls and top-rope climbing sections. They also offer specialized fitness equipment and yoga classes designed specifically for climbers. https://trianglerockclub.com/
As one of the oldest climbing gyms in the area, The Climbing Place is renowned for its extensive variety of climbing surfaces. Located at 436 Russell St. and spanning over 40,000 square feet, it features a 100-foot bouldering cave and a dedicated training room. https://www.theclimbingplace.com/
Aerial Arts & Movement
For a creative outlet that blends grace with intense core conditioning, explore aerial fitness and movement arts.
Air Born Aerial Fitness, located at 4910 Yadkin Rd., offers a unique approach to fitness through suspension, transforming your workout into an engaging performance art experience. They specialize in aerial silks, lyra (hoop), and pole fitness, with classes designed to enhance flexibility, build core strength, and boost confidence. https://www.airbornaerialfitness.com/
Elevo Dynamics reimagines martial arts for the 21st century, calling itself a "21st Century Dojo." It masterfully blends traditional martial arts with modern movement philosophies and mental wellness. Their Bujinkan Ninjutsu training emphasizes natural, efficient body mechanics, offering a distinct "Ninja Training" approach that sets it apart from conventional combat sports. They are located downtown at 110 Person St. https://elevodynamics.com/
Infrared Recovery & Conditioning
For a tech-driven fitness boost, infrared saunas enhance low-impact workouts and accelerate recovery.
Experience a unique workout at HOTWORX, where virtually instructed sessions combine the benefits of infrared heat with dynamic fitness programs. Choose from intense "HIIT" and "Isometrics" classes like Hot Yoga and Hot Pilates, all conducted in a heated environment. The infrared sauna's heat is designed to promote detoxification and enhance circulation as you sweat. They are located at 2775 Freedom Parkway Dr. https://www.hotworx.net/studio/fayetteville-freedom-town-center
Unique Sports and Combat Arts
Beyond the typical gym scene, Fayetteville offers specialized venues for niche sports such as fencing and dedicated kickboxing studios.
All-American Fencing Academy offers a unique opportunity to master the art of swordplay within a structured, community-oriented environment. They provide classes for all skill levels, from beginners to competitive fencers, focusing on the three Olympic weapons: foil, epee, and sabre. The academy fosters a social atmosphere where students hone their skills through friendly bouts and collaborative learning. The academy is located downtown at 207 Donaldson St. https://allamericanfencing.com/#welcome.
Experience a dynamic, non-traditional workout at 9Round Kickboxing Fitness, at 3010 Traemoor Village Dr., where combat sports techniques meet a flexible schedule. Their unique circuit-based training system features nine distinct stations, including heavy and speed bags, for a skill-building and engaging session. You'll always have a personal trainer at every station, ensuring proper form and keeping your energy levels high throughout your workout. https://www.9round.com/locations/nc/fayetteville/traemoor-village.
These are just a few examples of how you can revitalize your fitness routine by trying new exercises, setting fresh goals, and mixing up your workouts. It's an ideal way to kickstart healthy habits and renewed motivation after the holiday season!

Local stars shine at 2025 Hoops & Dreams Showcase

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Katie Herring

For most of us, the days after Thanksgiving are full of post-feast recovery, Black Friday bargain hunting, putting up Christmas decorations, and ringing in the Christmas season at the Dickens Holiday celebration downtown. But for an increasing number of local basketball players and fans, the weekend after Thanksgiving is for Hoops and Dreams.
The hardwood at Methodist University hummed with elite energy on the weekend after Thanksgiving as the eighth annual Hoops and Dreams Showcase took place on November 28–29. With a full gym, a record-breaking performance, and a gallery of future talent, the event lived up to its reputation as the premier Thanksgiving basketball tradition in North Carolina.
The atmosphere was electric from the opening tip-off on Friday morning. Tournament organizers reported a stellar turnout, with a steady flow of fans resulting in a gym that was mostly full for both days of competition. In total, the event drew approximately 1,200 patrons, with the total headcount reaching 1,600 when accounting for the elite roster of players, coaches, and scouts in attendance.
A Stage for New Talent and Epic Performances
This year’s showcase featured a diverse field of 18 teams from public and private schools around the Sandhills region, including several programs making their first-ever appearance in the tournament. The fresh competition provided a new look for scouting services and long-time fans alike.
Among the weekend’s most exciting performances came from Union Pines High School standout Kingsley Donaldson (#11, pictured here). In a performance that will be talked about for years to come, Donaldson shattered the tournament scoring record, dropping a massive 44 points to go along with 24 rebounds. His dominant presence in the paint and efficiency from the floor helped to cement his status as one of the region's most productive prospects.
Another notable performance was by local favorite Justin Caldwell of Fayetteville Academy. The senior, who has already committed to play at Georgetown University next year, delivered a signature performance with 34 points and 9 rebounds. Caldwell’s ability to anchor the interior while flashing refined offensive skills showed exactly why the Hoyas prioritized him in the 2026 class.
Scouting and Exposure
Exposure is the heartbeat of the Hoops and Dreams Showcase. While Phenom Hoops provided a global audience via their livestream, allowing college coaching staffs across the country to tune in, the gym was also crowded with excited fans, families, and friends.
At least four college coaches were present in person, primarily representing local colleges whose schedules allowed for a trip to Fayetteville. The early days of the basketball season make travel tricky for coaches, but the availability of streaming helps them catch the action happening throughout the tournament when they can’t attend in person. Additionally, at least two national scouting services were on hand to evaluate the talent. The feedback from these stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive, with coaches and scouts praising the organization and the high
level of play.
Community Support and Future Growth
The success of the showcase was made possible through the support of key community partners. Stop & Ride Automotive and Hutton Law Firm served as the event's primary sponsors, helping cover the extensive costs associated with the two-day tournament, including but not limited to gym rental, security, officiating, medical staff, and insurance. Their investment ensured a safe and professional environment for the athletes to compete.
As the final whistle blew on Saturday night, the impact of the weekend was clear. Not only did the event provide a platform for current stars like Donaldson and Caldwell, but it also sparked significant interest from other local programs. Tournament organizers noted that several area teams have already expressed interest in joining the field for future years, promising even more growth for Fayetteville’s premier event for rising basketball stars.

(Photo: Tyler Moore, a Senior at Northwood Temple Academy, is also a licensed pilot, and has a Presidential & Congressional nomination from U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis with aspirations of getting accepted in the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Photos by Joseph Amador, @Jowithdacam)

Greater Chamber goals for 2026; Call for National Civics Bee

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Tuesday, 06 January 2026

Written by Jami McLaughlin

It’s a new year, and that means two things: property tax is due and it is time to set goats for 2026.
Anyone who owns taxable property in Cumberland County, the 2026 property listing period is Jan. 1 - 31. Listing forms must be updated, signed and returned by Monday, Feb. 2. Forms postmarked after Feb. 2 will be considered late and incur a 10% late listing penalty. Taxable property includes agri-business/farm income-producing property, business and income-producing property, improvements to owned real estate and personal property.
Greater Fayetteville Chamber Advocacy Goals for 2026
Along with the Chamber's vision and focus to serve, our main objective is to enhance our standing as the voice of business in the Greater Fayetteville/ Cumberland County area and its positive influence through advocacy.
Our goal is to work with state, local and federal elected officials, maintain high visibility regarding issues impacting our business climate and communicate concerns on behalf of our membership for a more business friendly community.
These areas include:
• Small Business Support: Endorsing business friendly policies that provide resources, grants and regulatory relief for small businesses, which form the backbone of the Chamber's membership and community. Advocate for a comprehensive review and streamlining of the local development regulation process to improve efficiency and attract investment.
• Economic Development: Advocating for policies that encourage investment in local businesses, support startups and attract new industries to Cumberland County.
• Infrastructure and Transportation: Championing improvements in local infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, schools and broadband, which are essential for regional connectivity and economic growth. Advocate for state and federal funding for major transportation projects, including I-685 and expanded transportation to better link I-95 and I-295.
• Military and Defense: Given the region's close ties with Fort Bragg, promoting legislation that supports our military installation infrastructure, military families, veterans' services and policies to maintain and expand military-related economic activity. Continuing our Greater Fayetteville Chamber Military Affairs Council initiatives connecting our business community with the military and their families.
• Healthcare and Public Safety: Advocating for policies that address healthcare workforce shortages and support workplace health and wellness programs and enhance public safety measures for a healthier, more secure community. Focusing on the new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, a critical component in the county's goals of enhancing health and wellness and supporting a high-performing education system pipeline. Supporting a regional public safety training center and a joint 911 communication center to modernize and improve emergency response capabilities.
• Workforce and Education: Supporting policies that strengthen educational opportunities, workforce training programs and partnerships with local educational institutions such as Fayetteville State University, Methodist University and Fayetteville Technical Community College to ensure a pipeline of skilled workers for the region.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Supporting measures that promote tourism in Cumberland County, including investments in cultural and recreational attractions, which help to attract visitors and stimulate the local economy. Monitoring legislation regarding tax allocation and distribution to ensure an equitable and competitive tax structure for local businesses and governments. Increasing STARnetwork for support and further connection among hospitality businesses including service, tourism, activities and restaurants.
If you have any questions or would like to join the efforts of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, visit www.faybiz.com. Our Government Relations committee meets regularly to discuss issues.
Stay tuned for more government meeting recaps in the next issue after the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners and the Fayetteville City Council meet again.
National Civics Bee®
The National Civics Bee®, a nationwide initiative led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, will allow middle school students (6th, 7th and 8th grades) to participate for the first time in North Carolina this year and Fayetteville through the Greater Fayetteville Chamber was chosen as a regional site. Applications for students officially are open and students have until Feb. 3.
For more information about the program including educator resources and how to participate in the 2026 competition, visit www.faybiz.com/civicsbee.
About the Greater Fayetteville Chamber
Advocacy is a cornerstone of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. Every week, the Chamber dedicates staff to attend City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County meetings as well as monitoring updates on the state and federal levels. We monitor legislation locally, statewide and federally to protect our community’s business interests. With 91% of U.S. adults recognizing a Chamber of Commerce's impact on growth, membership ensures a strong voice shaping policies, driving economic success and building a thriving business community—together. To learn more, visit www.faybiz.com or email jmclaughlin@faybiz.com.

How to nurture mind, body during cold months

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Wednesday, 31 December 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

Winter often invites us to slow down. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and packed schedules can leave us feeling drained, unmotivated, or disconnected from ourselves. While it’s tempting to push through and
wait for spring, winter is actually the perfect season to focus on intentional self-care. By supporting your body, mind, and emotional well-being, you can navigate the colder months with greater confidence, feeling
grounded, nourished, and resilient.

Embrace Rest and Gentle Rhythms
Winter naturally calls for rest. With fewer daylight hours, our bodies crave more sleep and downtime. Instead of resisting this, allow yourself to honor it. Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up
at the same time each day. Create a calming nighttime ritual—reading, stretching, journaling, or enjoying a warm cup of herbal tea—to signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. This season isn’t about constant productivity. Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind; it means recharging so you can show up fully when it matters most.

Nourish Your Body From the Inside Out
Cold weather often brings cravings for comfort foods, and that’s completely natural. Focus on meals that are both nourishing and warming. Soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and whole grains provide comfort while delivering essential nutrients. Hydration is just as important in winter as it is in summer, even though thirst cues may be less obvious. Drinking warm beverages like herbal teas or lemon water can help you stay hydrated while supporting digestion and circulation.
Don’t forget your skin. Cold air and indoor heating can strip moisture, so prioritize hydration through rich moisturizers, lip balm, and gentle skincare routines.

Support Your Mental and Emotional Health
Seasonal changes can impact mood, energy, and motivation. If you notice feelings of sadness, irritability, or lethargy, know that you’re not alone. Make space for mental self-care by checking in with yourself regularly.
Practices like journaling, meditation, or mindful breathing can help process emotions and reduce stress. Even just a few minutes a day can create a sense of calm and clarity. Staying socially connected is also vital
during winter. Make intentional plans with friends or loved ones—whether it’s a cozy dinner, a phone call, or a virtual check-in—to combat isolation and maintain emotional support.

Move Your Body Gently and Consistently
It can be harder to stay active when it’s cold and dark outside, but movement remains essential for both physical and mental well-being. Instead of intense workouts, focus on gentle, consistent movement that feels good. Yoga, stretching, walking, or at-home workouts are excellent winter options. Even 10–20 minutes of movement can boost your mood, improve circulation, and increase energy levels. Listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed—this is a season for compassion, not pressure.

Create Comfort and Joy in Your Environment
Your surroundings can play a powerful role in how you feel during winter. Create a cozy, comforting space at home with soft blankets, warm lighting, candles, or calming scents. Small changes can make a big difference in your mood and sense of peace. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, creative hobbies, cooking, or listening to music. Winter is a beautiful time to reconnect with what soothes and inspires you.

Practice Kindness Toward Yourself
Perhaps the most important aspect of winter self-care is self-compassion. Energy levels may fluctuate, plans may shift, and motivation may come and go—and that’s okay. Give yourself permission to rest, reset, and adjust expectations. 

Winter is not something to rush through; it’s a season to honor. By caring for yourself intentionally, you can emerge feeling refreshed, balanced, and ready for the brighter days ahead.