Today we’d like to introduce you to Max Ward.
Hi Max, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
For nearly 2 decades, I was co-owner and CEO of an animation and interactive company (The Danse) that primarily serves medical device companies. Our clients came to us for help developing really cool cutting edge visuals (3D animation, virtual reality programs, augmented reality experiences, etc..). About 4 years ago, I had this burning desire to create a place for people to have a safe 3rd space (outside of traditional churches, schools, and coffee shops) AND to combine excellent fitness coaching with technology to help people achieve their health and fitness goals.
I have experienced a large amount of tragedy in my life. The most difficult ones were losing both of my parents to suicide, my mother when I was 18 and my father when I was 35. During those times of grief, I felt isolated. I didn’t have a strong support system outside of my family, and even most of my family was distant. I am also a gay christian, which brings an entire new level of feeling out of place in many situations. At one point in my life, I weighed nearly 300 lbs. Finding community, learning to love and accept myself as a child of God, and committing to a high level of fitness brought me out of a very dark time in my life. Moonwalk Fitness, to me, is a place where people can be themselves and be loved and accepted. It’s a place where you can be seen and heard without judgement. All while getting in the best shape of your life!
I stepped down as CEO of The Danse to pursue this dream. Coach David Mannon joined me from the start. He has put so much love and attention into building this place with me. He is such an amazing person, coach, and friend. He is an integral part of this mission. In August of 2024 we officially opened Moonwalk Fitness.
Since then, our membership has grown. We see so many people getting stronger, shedding body fat, becoming more mobile, and gaining confidence. They are also developing bonds and creating friendships that will last. I’m so proud of each and every one of our members- from our top athletes absolutely annihilating every workout in order to live their best lives to our members in their 80s committing programs that will allow them to improve their quality of life and time with their families. These wonderful people regularly make me cry tears of joy for their accomplishments.
Also, the gym really has been turning into a family affair! In addition to all of the families we have at Moonwalk Fitness, my son, Aiden Turner-Ward, just graduated from Collierville High School and is planning on getting his exercise science degree. He will be working to become a personal trainer and group fitness coach over the summer. I am thrilled to have my son working with me and can’t wait to see him grow into all of the roles he will be taking on in the coming years!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
While it hasn’t been a super smooth road from the birth of the idea, all of the necessary doors have opened when I’ve needed them to. I’ve had the support of some truly amazing people, including Coach David Mannon who helps run the gym, coach classes, and keep people on the right track to achieving their goals. I am so thankful for him.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We are the only gym in the entire Memphis Metro area that provides all of the following:
Group Fitness Classes (monthly membership, unlimited classes) for most fitness levels and abilities
Personal Training for a much more customized approach to achieving a member’s goals
Free Basic Nutrition Coaching to all members
One-on-One Nutrition Coaching for members with specific goals or struggles
VO2max Testing to measure and track cardiovascular fitness
Infrared Body Composition Scanning that can track trends over time for muscle mass, body fat, posture, bone density, and other metrics
Recovery Room which includes compression therapy, sauna, and red light therapy
In-House Community Events
Missions and Community Outreach Focus (we are currently partnered with Make-A-Wish, and have given to other organizations as well)
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Trust in God
Pricing:
- Group Memberships are $175 a month
- Personal Training Memberships start at $300 a month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://moonwalkfitness.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moonwalk_fitness/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moonwalkfitnessinc/
