Nestled inside Sugar Land, a unique organization named F3 is quietly making waves. Known as a leadership group within an exercise community, F3 is transforming lives by promoting fitness, fellowship, and faith (however anyone chooses to define it) among its members.
What is F3?
F3 stands for Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith. This organization provides a free, peer-led workout group for men of all ages and fitness levels. It operates on the belief that fitness is a key component of leadership, which can significantly enhance personal and community life.
At the heart of F3 Fort Bend is the Area of Operations Quarterback (AOQ), a pivotal role currently held by dedicated F3 member and founder of Sandon Analytics, Cameron Stawicki, who starts his days at 5 a.m. working out with F3 in Sugar Land before working out energy deals for his clients as as an energy broker. His responsibilities include coordinating the group’s activities, scheduling who leads the workouts, and ensuring everyone is motivated and engaged. He describes his role with humility. “Leadership within F3 is a revolving door,” he says, “different members step up over time to guide and inspire others within the group.”
The benefits: more than just fitness
Stawicki shared the multitude of benefits that F3 offers. Beyond physical fitness, the group fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and support among its members. They gather not only to exercise but also to share life experiences, discuss personal challenges, and provide mutual encouragement. This fellowship aspect is vital, as it allows members to form deep, meaningful connections, enhancing their mental and emotional well-being. “One of my favorite things is assigning nicknames,” says Stawicki, whose Kielbasa pays homage to his Polish heritage. “It’s a fun way to personalize relationships.”
A broader calling: the faith element
While the faith component of F3 is broad and inclusive, it underscores the idea of a higher calling or purpose regardless of how one chooses to define it. For some, this may be religious faith, but for many others, it might be community service or personal development. “We accept all forms of belief in anything, by anyone, that transcends humanity,” states Stawicki adamantly. He emphasizes how this aspect helps members transcend their day-to-day struggles, providing a sense of direction and purpose that extends beyond physical exercise.
Inclusivity and accessibility
F3 prides itself on being accessible to all men, regardless of age or fitness level. There are no membership fees or stringent requirements. The organization operates on a voluntary basis, encouraging men to participate as they can and to push themselves without risking injury. This open, inclusive approach ensures that everyone can benefit from what F3 has to offer.
Meeting times and locations
F3 Fort Bend meets three times a week at Ellis Creek Park, located at 6101 Homeward Way, Sugar Land, across from Walker Station Elementary School. The workouts are scheduled early in the morning at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 6 a.m. on Saturdays. These sessions typically last about an hour, followed by coffee and conversation.
In addition to regular workouts, F3 members participate in what they call Completely Stupid and Utterly Pointless (CSAUP) events. These include challenging activities like marathons, Spartan races, and long-distance relays. Recently, members took part in the Independent Texas Relay, a grueling 200-mile run from Gonzales to Houston, showcasing their endurance and team spirit.
The bigger picture
Nationally, F3 is a nonprofit organization that has grown from its origins in North Carolina during the early 2000’s to a now global presence. Despite its informal structure, it has a profound impact on its members and communities, encouraging men to lead healthier, more connected lives.
Find out more
For those interested in joining or learning more, F3 has a robust online presence. The national website, F3Nation.com, provides detailed information about the organization and its principles. Additionally, F3 Fort Bend maintains a Facebook page for local updates and community interactions.
In a time when community and personal wellbeing are more important than ever, F3 Fort Bend offers a powerful model of how fitness, fellowship, and faith can intersect to create positive change. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, build meaningful relationships, or find a greater sense of purpose, F3 might just be the community you’ve been searching for.
For more information about F3 Fort Bend, visit f3fortbend.org or facebook.com/F3FortBend.
