Michael B. Jordan isn’t just an A-list actor—he’s also a fitness advocate who understands that not everyone has the same opportunities to stay active. From gym memberships that stretch budgets to neighborhoods lacking safe outdoor spaces, the barriers to fitness are real and varied. That’s why Jordan’s partnership with Propel Fitness Water isn’t just about hydration; it’s about rewriting the rules of accessibility and building communities through movement. The Propel Your City Project, now in its second year, is proof that fitness can be inclusive, empowering, and—most importantly—free.
Why Community Matters in Fitness
Jordan’s vision for the project goes beyond just breaking a sweat. It’s about creating a support system where people can push their limits together. "Community isn’t just a group of people—it’s a vibe," he says. "When you’re surrounded by folks who get it, who cheer you on, you stop doubting yourself and start surprising yourself." Propel’s research backs this up: 77% of exercisers say group classes motivate them, and 74% see better results when they work out with others. Yet, 65% still go solo, often because cost or logistics get in the way. The Propel Your City Project flips that script by offering free classes designed to welcome everyone, no matter their fitness level or background.
Newark: A Homecoming with Purpose
This year, the project hits Jordan’s hometown of Newark, NJ, with a fitness hub in the Mount Pleasant-Lower Broadway neighborhood. "This is full-circle for me," Jordan admits. "Growing up, I didn’t always have access to spaces where I could train or explore movement. Now, we’re changing that." The hub’s lineup includes running clubs, bodyweight training, and yoga—but the standout is Brick City Rowing’s new program on the Passaic River, the first of its kind in over a century. "We’re not just dropping in and leaving," Jordan emphasizes. "This is about creating something that lasts." During a visit, he even jumped into a 250-meter rowing challenge with the team, proving that fitness is always more fun (and competitive) with friends.
Los Angeles: Where Wellness Meets Creativity
In LA, the Propel Your City Project is doubling down on its partnership with WalkGood LA, a nonprofit that blends fitness with arts and mindfulness. Their studio, The WalkGood Yard, is a sanctuary offering everything from Soca Sculpt (a dance-fueled workout) to Yinergy Yoga. New additions this year include Babes of Wellness, Compton’s first queer Latina-owned gym, and BlacklistLA, a run club that turns miles into empowerment. "This isn’t just about burning calories," says WalkGood LA’s founder Etienne Maurice. "It’s about healing—physically, mentally, and spiritually." Classes kick off August 3, with hikes and meditation sessions rounding out the schedule.
Atlanta: Running Toward Connection
For Atlanta Run Club founder James Ro, the project is a game-changer. "Last year, we finally had the resources to tell our story creatively," he says. This summer, the club’s downtown hub will welcome beginners with a simple message: "No run is too slow or too short." New partners like Bonafide Riders (a cycling crew) and PRETTY GIRLS SWEAT (a fitness collective for women of color) are expanding the city’s offerings, proving that fitness can be as diverse as the communities it serves. "It’s not about keeping up," Ro adds. "It’s about showing up."
Houston: Wellness as Empowerment
BLK Beetles, a Houston-based org, has been a Propel partner since 2021, with a mission to make wellness accessible in underserved neighborhoods. "Wellness shouldn’t be a privilege," says co-founder Samad Hinton. This year, their Midtown/Montrose hub will host Latinas Run Houston, ZFT Run Club, and FitMix Communities, offering everything from strength training to dance. "The goal isn’t just to sweat," Hinton explains. "It’s to build a sense of ownership—over your health, your time, and your joy."
How to Join the Movement
Jordan’s advice for first-timers? "Bring a buddy. Laugh through the awkwardness. The hardest part is walking through the door—after that, it’s all momentum." Free classes start rolling out in June (Newark), July (Houston), and August (LA and Atlanta), with schedules and sign-ups available on the Propel Your City Project website. Whether you’re rowing on the Passaic River or dancing it out in Compton, one thing’s clear: fitness is better together.
So, what’s stopping you? As Jordan puts it: "Your brain will always come up with excuses. Your community? They’ll come up with high-fives."
