F45 Training Stafford
Amanda Forrester
July 14, 2026
Stronger Together: Building Community Through Movement
Owner: Christina Hudson
For Christina Hudson, fitness has long been a pathway to deeper purpose. After years of military service, she recognized the powerful link between discipline, resilience, and community — principles that later shaped her vision for a space where people could rebuild strength in both body and mind. As a disabled veteran, Christina saw firsthand how movement and shared support can restore confidence and well-being. “Functional fitness saved me,” she said. “I wanted others to feel that same empowerment — to experience fitness as accessible, uplifting, and truly transformative.”
In 2022, Christina founded F45 Training Stafford, a community-focused studio offering structured group workouts designed to foster strength, resilience, and connection. Her vision was to create a place where everyone — regardless of age, ability, or experience — could feel supported and capable. “We’re more than a fitness studio,” she explained. “We’re a community that builds each other up.”
Before opening her doors, Christina turned to the University of Mary Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for guidance. She first connected through the SBA’s Boots to Business and Revenue Readiness programs, where she learned about entrepreneurship resources available to veterans. From there, the UMW SBDC became her foundation. Advisors guided her through community research, strengthened her business plan, prepared her for financing, and helped her identify the right location for her studio.
“The UMW SBDC gave me clarity, direction, and confidence,” she said. “They helped me see my vision not just as an idea, but as a business that could truly make an impact.” Their advising also connected her to community partners, including Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP), a program that links local employers with college interns. Through that partnership, Christina built a strong team of trainers, employees, and student interns, all united by her mission of making fitness inclusive and empowering.
“The SBDC didn’t just give me business advice,” Christina said. “They became partners in helping me build something that changes lives.”
Looking ahead, Christina plans to expand programming to include more personalized group training and veteran wellness initiatives. Her goal remains simple but powerful: to help every member become stronger — in body, in confidence, and in community.
Economic Impact
- Opened F45 Training Stafford in May 2025, creating 10 jobs and 6 internship opportunities
- Secured $580,000 in startup financing with UMW SBDC guidance and business plan development
- Established a long-term partnership with V-TOP
- Increased membership and program participation by 25% month-over-month since launch
