Phoenixville Small Business Spotlight: Iron Cross Athletics

PHOENIXVILLE, PA -- There’s a story lurking behind the glass pane of every shop, and there’s oftentimes an innovative individual whose entrepreneurial spirit is helping to shape the town.

Our small business series shines a light on local business owners in the community.

Business: Iron Cross Athletics

Owners: John and Nikki Warnek

Website: www.iron-cross-athletics.com

Address: 723 Wheatland Street, Phoenixville

What business are you in or what is the nature of your charity?

Iron Cross Athletics (ICA) is Phoenixville’s first CrossFit gym! We offer group classes and personal training for all ages and abilities.

How did you come up with the name?

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program that borrows movements from weightlifting, traditional cardio, and gymnastics. The “iron cross” is one of the hardest gymnastics movements and inspired our name! The iron cross was also a military decoration established in 1813 by the King of Prussia. The Iron Cross was unique because its awarding process was blind to Prussia’s then very class-conscious society. In today’s culture, the Iron Cross has been adopted as a symbol of bravery, individualism, courage, and non-conformity.

Why start a business in this town?

We moved to Phoenixville from Ardmore just to open our business here! We love the town for its family-friendly atmosphere, great downtown, and all the natural resources (rivers, creeks, parks, hiking trails, etc)!

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

When we opened the gym, we ran it part-time (nights and weekends) while working full time jobs. That was a challenge! But even more challenging was making the decision for John to quit his job (as a physics teacher) to run the gym full-time... It was a risk, but we are so happy that we took it!

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

Every year on our businesses anniversary, we run a fundraiser to benefit the 31 Heroes Project (which supports military families). In 2015, ICA was ranked 3rd in the world for funds raised, out of more than 100 CrossFit affiliates who participated! That was really incredible and we are so proud of our community for helping us achieve it! Also, our athletes make us proud on a daily basis when they reach their personal goals. Every time someone gets their first pull up, it ranks as one of our best and proudest days!

How does your business give back to the community?

In addition to participating in multiple fundraisers throughout the year, we give back to the Phoenixville community by making it a healthier, happier place to be! Our members are hands-down some of the healthiest, happiest, most fun, most involved members of the Phoenixville community. If you are interested in learning more, send us an email or stop by.

Do you have a business or a non-profit, or know of one, that deserves the spotlight? Email justin.heinze@patch.com.