NASHVILLE, TN — A unique new event is gearing up to bring together civilians and military members in a powerful, uplifting way—through fitness, fun, and community.
The Forge Fit Challenge is set to be unlike any other event in Nashville. Spearheaded by a Marine and Army veteran, Christian Pennington has a deep passion for military service and community connection. The event is designed to merge civilian life with the military experience in a non-intimidating, engaging environment. The goal? To break down barriers, educate the public, and show that military life isn’t just about combat—it’s about opportunity, empowerment, and service.
“It’s a way of involving everybody,” Pennington shares. “My ultimate goal is to create a time where different branches of the armed forces can bring their gear, show off their skills to the kids, and just create a fun, welcoming community atmosphere—with a workout twist.”
The event will feature military-inspired workouts tailored to each military branch. For example, attendees will get to experience exercises drawn directly from Marine Corps fitness tests—think buddy carries, ammo can presses, laps, and pull-ups.
“It’s all taken from the Marine combat or physical fitness tests,” Pennington explains. “So if the Marines are there, you’re getting the real-deal workout experience.”
Other branches, like the Army or Air Force, will bring their own unique training styles. And the event won’t be all sweat and reps—it’s also a chance to learn.
While recruiters will be present for anyone interested in learning more about military careers, the event’s intent is not to push enlistment.
“It’s not about signing up to go to war,” Pennington says. “There are so many jobs in the military. For example, we’ll have TACPs Air Force Tactical Air Control Party members who coordinate air support and communicate with both pilots and infantry. People can talk to them and see what real military life looks like.”
The event will also highlight the increasing opportunities for female service members. Organizers are working to bring in teams from Fort Campbell, including female athletes on military powerlifting and CrossFit teams.
“This is not just for the guys,” Pennington says. “We’re showcasing strong women too. You can play sports full-time in the military—it’s powerful, and it’s inspiring.”
The passion behind this event is personal. Pennington served six years in the Marine Corps and two years in the Army, with family members who have also served—one of whom was killed in Vietnam.
“Military service has been close to my heart since I was a kid. This is about honoring that legacy and showing the next generation that the military is more than what they see in movies. It’s uplifting, it’s a community.”
Though Nashville boasts a strong sense of community, the founder believes this event brings something fresh to the table.
“I wouldn’t say it’s filling a gap—it’s more about breaking a stereotype,” Pennington says. “The military isn’t some scary entity. It’s filled with passionate, driven people who want to help and inspire.”
The event is free and open to the public. It will take place at Lipscomb Academy from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and setup beginning at 7 a.m. Individual and groups can register here.
For more information and to keep up with The Forge Fit Challenge, visit their Instagram or get in direct contact with Christian Pennington at (615)-948-7784.
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