American Council on Exercise Contributes to Project COURAGE, a Matrix Fitness Initiative
Posted: October 8, 2025 in Suppliers
ACE
SAN DIEGO, CA – The American Council on Exercise (ACE) announces its support of Project COURAGE, a Matrix Fitness initiative expanding opportunities for students and professionals at the 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States. The project is designed to open doors for those interested in fitness-related fields and to strengthen community through greater access to education and resources.
“At our core, ACE is an education organization,” said Anthony J. Wall, PhD, ACE National Spokesperson and Global Wellness Ambassador. “By supporting this initiative, we can help equip HBCU students and professionals with the knowledge and credentials they need to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives—especially in communities that too often lack access to these types of health resources.”
ACE will contribute to Project COURAGE by donating 60 study programs and certification exams over the next year. Matrix Fitness will activate the Project COURAGE Advisory Panel to engage the HBCU network, select and award the certification programs to students and professionals pursuing personal training or group fitness instruction. Together, ACE and Matrix Fitness aim to address health inequities, expand access to fitness opportunities, and inspire communities to embrace active, healthier lifestyles.
“Project COURAGE was created to provide real opportunities for students and professionals at HBCUs to thrive in the fitness industry,” said Rebecca Peoples, collegiate recreation east region manager at Matrix Fitness. “Partnering with ACE allows us to expand our impact, ensuring more individuals can gain the tools and credentials they need to transform not only their own futures, but also the health and wellness of the communities they serve.”
Project COURAGE, launched in July 2023 by Matrix Fitness, is a national initiative supporting HBCUs by fostering education, professional development, and a sense of belonging in the fitness industry. Through scholarships, workshops, networking, product training, and access to the Matrix Learning Center and Research Hub, underrepresented students and professionals are empowered to explore health and wellness careers while advancing equity and inclusion across the industry. Through support from partners like ACE, Project COURAGE is increasing opportunities and programming, expanding its reach to serve more HBCU students and staff nationwide.
ACE contributions to this initiative underscore the organization’s commitment to empowering health and exercise professionals, supporting public health, and advancing inclusion to physical activity.
For more information about Project COURAGE, visit www.ProjectCOURAGEbyMatrix.com.
