It’s no secret that exercise is beneficial. From boosting your heart health to reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, there are endless reasons to prioritize fitness. But for the team behind WarriorWOD, exercise isn’t just a healthy hobby; it’s a prescription. 

WarriorWOD, an organization dedicated to empowering veterans through fitness and community, is a beacon of support and transformation for those who have served their country. Founded with a profound mission, WarriorWOD harnesses the power of physical activity not just to build strength and endurance but also to promote mental well-being and camaraderie among veterans.

The Mission of WarriorWOD

At the heart of WarriorWOD's mission is a commitment to using exercise, nutrition, and mentorship as prescriptions for veterans’ recovery from post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideations. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by veterans transitioning from military to civilian life, WarriorWOD provides a supportive environment where veterans can reclaim their physical and mental resilience.

How WarriorWOD Helps Veterans

1. Fitness Programs: Every veteran in WarriorWOD’s program receives a 6-month paid gym membership to any gym of their choice. Through exercise, veterans can build strength, resilience, and confidence, reducing Post-Traumatic Stress symptoms and enhancing overall well-being. 

2. Nutrition Coaching: Exercise is one piece of the puzzle, but WarriorWOD also recognizes the importance of nutrition. That’s why each veteran in the program is paired with a dedicated nutrition coach for 6 months. Together, the pair works to explore macro intake, set achievable weight gain or loss goals, foster a positive body image, and embrace healthy eating habits. 

3. Community Support: Beyond physical fitness, WarriorWOD fosters a community of support and camaraderie among veterans. Battle Buddies, or mentors who are also veterans, work to support and guide veterans on their path to recovery by building strength, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Impact and Success Stories

Although generally speaking, gym memberships and nutrition coaching would indicate a focus on physical fitness, WarriorWOD is hyperfocused on veterans' recovery from post-traumatic stress and suicidal ideations. The WarriorWOD "Excercise as a Prescription" program's outcomes are reducing veterans' post-traumatic stress symptoms, suicidal ideations, and substance abuse.

Since its inception, WarriorWOD has supported over 1,000 veterans, worked with 172 program participants, and seen a 29% PTS symptom improvement. Founder and CEO Philip Palmer notes that “in 2023, 9 veterans in our program expressed that they had suicidal ideations before our program, and all 9 are prospering and making the world better because they did not take their lives.” 

How You Can Support WarriorWOD

Supporting WarriorWOD means supporting veterans in their journey toward healing and empowerment. You can contribute by donating to their programs, sponsoring a cohort, volunteering, or spreading awareness about the organization's mission and impact.

In a world where veterans often face significant challenges upon returning to civilian life, WarriorWOD stands as a vital resource, offering not just fitness programs but a lifeline of support and community. Through their dedication to fitness as a prescription, WarriorWOD is transforming lives and helping veterans rediscover their strength, resilience, and sense of purpose. As they continue to expand their reach and impact, WarriorWOD remains committed to serving those who have served. 

To help WarriorWOD on their mission, you can get involved or donate. $25 a month (less than a dollar a day) can save a veteran’s life.