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Workout, Happening, and Updates at ARSENAL FITNESS AND MUNCIE CROSSFIT

The Blog

BJ MCKAY SPEAKER BIO

BJ McKay is a leadership consultant, business owner, and Catholic husband and father whose life’s work is helping people become fully integrated—mind, body, and soul. For

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I’ve got data

By BJ McKay I’ve got data. We say, “I’ve got an Apple Watch, a WHOOP strap, and an Oura Ring. I have all these tools capturing

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Lead by example

By Eric Van Matre I was out on the golf course the other day—a beautiful Sunday afternoon—working on my short game at a local par-three

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lifting heavy things

Remember that time when you thought life was so heavy that it was going to break you?  That time when relationships were strained.  When money

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Awareness before habits

Every habit and faculty is preserved and increased by the corresponding actions; as the habit of walking, by walking; of running, by running. If you

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chris peters

Sports performance coach + Personal Trainer

Chris Peters is dedicated to optimizing athletic performance and personal fitness through tailored sport performance and personal training programs. His role focuses on enhancing strength, agility, and overall physical capabilities for both athletes and general fitness enthusiasts.

Experience:

With 1.5 years of hands-on experience working with athletes and the general population, Chris has developed a deep understanding of various fitness needs and goals. His experience spans working with individuals at different fitness levels, allowing him to craft personalized training programs that deliver results.
 
Specialties:
Chris specializes in sport performance and strength training. His expertise lies in developing training programs that enhance athletic performance, improve strength, and build resilience. Whether preparing for a competition or aiming for personal fitness milestones, he provides targeted support to help athletes achieve their goals.
 
Coaching Philosophy:
At the core of Chris’ coaching philosophy is a commitment to enhancing athletes’ and individuals’ strength, mobility, and overall quality of life. He believes in a holistic approach that not only focuses on improving performance in sports but also ensures that clients can thrive in their everyday activities. Chris’ goal is to empower every client to reach their full potential both on and off the field.
 
Fun Fact:
Chris is a member of the United States Army Reserves, where he balances his military responsibilities with his passion for sport performance and personal training. His diverse experiences contribute to a well-rounded perspective on discipline, dedication, and fitness.

Certifications

Michael holds an impressive array of certifications that underscore his extensive knowledge and expertise. He is certified as a CF Level 1 and Level 2 coach, USAW Level 1, and has additional qualifications in CF Mobility, CF Rowing, CF Kids, and CF Nutrition. His credentials also include Red Cross CPR/AED and Lifeguard certifications, reflecting his commitment to both effective training and safety.

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ABBY YANT

crossfit coach

COMING SOON

Certifications

Michael holds an impressive array of certifications that underscore his extensive knowledge and expertise. He is certified as a CF Level 1 and Level 2 coach, USAW Level 1, and has additional qualifications in CF Mobility, CF Rowing, CF Kids, and CF Nutrition. His credentials also include Red Cross CPR/AED and Lifeguard certifications, reflecting his commitment to both effective training and safety.

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Jack Hart

crossfit coach

Jack Hart is a dynamic CrossFit Coach focused on helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personalized CrossFit training. His role involves guiding individuals through effective workouts and supporting their journey to better health and performance.
 
Experience:

With 2 years of experience in CrossFit and 6 months of coaching under his belt, Jack has developed a strong foundation in the principles of CrossFit training. His experience includes both personal participation and coaching, allowing him to offer valuable insights and support.

Specialties:

Jack specializes in jump rope techniques and squats, focusing on these fundamental movements to enhance overall fitness and performance. His expertise in these areas allows him to help clients improve their technique and achieve their fitness goals.

Coaching Philosophy:

Jack believes in the power of consistency. He emphasizes that steady, committed effort leads to long-term success and progress in fitness. His coaching philosophy is centered around helping clients develop and maintain consistent workout routines to achieve their desired results.

Personal Achievements:

  • College graduate and former college athlete
  • Competed in two CrossFit competitions, a Spartan race, and a Deka race

Jack’s background as a college athlete and his participation in various fitness competitions highlight his commitment to fitness and personal achievement.

Fun Fact:

Jack has competed in two CrossFit competitions, a Spartan race, and a Deka race. His diverse experience in competitive events reflects his passion for challenging himself and staying engaged in various aspects of fitness.

Certifications

Michael holds an impressive array of certifications that underscore his extensive knowledge and expertise. He is certified as a CF Level 1 and Level 2 coach, USAW Level 1, and has additional qualifications in CF Mobility, CF Rowing, CF Kids, and CF Nutrition. His credentials also include Red Cross CPR/AED and Lifeguard certifications, reflecting his commitment to both effective training and safety.

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Michael Cooper

Director of Longevity + CrossFit Coach

As the Director of Longevity and a CrossFit Coach, Michael Cooper is dedicated to fostering long-term health and fitness in our gym community. His role encompasses coaching programs tailored to diverse age groups and fitness levels,ensuring that each individual achieves their personal goals while maintaining overall well-being.

Meet Michael Cooper:

As the Director of Longevity and a CrossFit Coach, Michael Cooper is dedicated to fostering long-term health and fitness in our gym community. His role encompasses coaching programs tailored to diverse age groups and fitness levels, ensuring that each individual achieves their personal goals while maintaining overall well-being.

Experience:

With 24 years of experience coaching youth sports and 12 years specializing in CrossFit, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his role. His extensive background in coaching across different age groups allows him to tailor his approach to meet the unique needs of each client, from young athletes to older adults seeking to enhance their fitness.
 
Specialities:

Michael’s expertise lies in strength and conditioning programs for both aged populations and youth athletes. He excels in developing training regimens that cater to the specific physical needs and goals of these groups. Additionally, his background in food and nutrition enables him to provide comprehensive guidance that complements his training programs.

Coaching Philosophy:

Michael’s coaching philosophy is encapsulated in the mantra, “Slow and Steady always wins the race.” He advocates for a gradual and consistent approach to fitness, emphasizing the importance of sustainable progress and long-term health over quick fixes. This philosophy guides his training methods and interactions with clients, fostering a supportive and patient environment.
 
Personal Achievements:
Outside of his professional achievements, Michael is a proud father to three amazing boys. His role as a father informs his empathetic and motivational approach to coaching, as he understands the balance between encouragement and patience required to help others succeed.
 
Fun Fact:
Michael was born on April Fools’ Day.

Certifications

Michael holds an impressive array of certifications that underscore his extensive knowledge and expertise. He is certified as a CF Level 1 and Level 2 coach, USAW Level 1, and has additional qualifications in CF Mobility, CF Rowing, CF Kids, and CF Nutrition. His credentials also include Red Cross CPR/AED and Lifeguard certifications, reflecting his commitment to both effective training and safety.

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Brandon van Matre

crossfit + sports performance coach

As a dedicated CrossFit and Sport Performance Coach, Brandon brings a wealth of expertise and qualifications, including certifications such as USAW-L1 and USAPL-cc, along with a Master’s degree in Sport Performance from Ball State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Huntington University.

Experience:

With 14 years of coaching experience, Brandon has developed a keen ability to break down movement techniques into their smallest details, which helps athletes achieve mastery more efficiently. His specialties lie in barbell movements, strength sports, and optimizing sports performance for athletes.

Coaching Philosophy:

Brandon’s coaching philosophy centers on mastering the basics and performing them with full intensity. He strongly believes that any goal or level of success is ultimately determined by the discipline one brings to their training.

Personal Achievements:

Brandon’s personal achievements are noteworthy, including competing in 8 strongman competitions where he has medaled or won in 6. Additionally, he has a background in college baseball, having played for 4 years.

Fun Fact:

Outside of his professional life, Brandon is a proud father to a three-year-old daughter and is eagerly anticipating the arrival of his second child.

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

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Ryan Smith

Director of operations/coach

Ryan Smith is a coach who believes in building strength from the inside out. His approach centers on creating momentum—helping people show up, stay consistent, and discover their own capacity for growth. With a steady, motivating presence, Ryan focuses on clear structure, purposeful training, and the small daily wins that lead to long-term change. He’s committed to guiding athletes and everyday individuals toward healthier movement, stronger habits, and a deeper confidence in what their bodies can do.
 
Experience:
Ryan’s professional background includes personal training and designing structured fitness programs tailored specifically for busy adults who need efficient, effective training solutions. As a member of the United States Air Force, he also played a key role in rehabilitating Airmen who had fallen below PT standards. Through targeted conditioning, progressive programming, and rebuilding foundational movement patterns, Ryan helped service members regain confidence, rebuild strength, and return to passing scores. His coaching style blends accountability, clear communication, and a deep commitment to helping people overcome physical setbacks and become stronger than before.
 
Specialties:
Ryan specializes in creating efficient, results-driven training programs designed for busy adults who need structure without wasted time. Drawing from his work in the United States Air Force, he also focuses on rebuilding strength and conditioning for individuals who need to restore performance and meet physical standards. His approach emphasizes foundational movement, progressive programming, and corrective strategies that help clients overcome setbacks, move better, and achieve consistent, measurable improvements.
 
Coaching Philosophy:
Ryan believes that real progress begins when you commit to showing up consistently and trusting each step of the journey. TTP — Trust The Process—is the foundation of his coaching approach. Great results aren’t built overnight; they come from intentional movement, disciplined habits, and the willingness to lean into growth even when it feels uncomfortable.

His philosophy:
Trust the Process. Build the Basics. Commit with Purpose.
Every rep, every session, and every challenge is part of a bigger picture. Ryan’s mission is to guide you through that process, remove roadblocks, and help you step closer to the strongest version of yourself.

Personal Achievements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science

  • Minor in Coaching

  • Serves in the United States Air Force

  • Certified in CPR/AED for adults, children, and infants

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

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Travis shamel

Performance coach

Coach Travis Shamel is driven to make others motivated to take control and achieve more through their health and fitness. Learning how to take care of your health starts with a coach geared towards detailed programming that produces results. He will teach you, encourage you, and structure you for success!

Experience:

Travis’ coaching background includes personal training, structured program design, and serving as assistant strength coach at Muncie Central, where he worked closely with students and athletes to develop strong, confident movement. Combined with his EMT experience, Travis brings a service-first mindset, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of how to help people grow physically and mentally through training.

Specialties:

Travis’ main area of specialty is in functional movement with a growing interest in tactical training. While at Ball State, learning about Myofascial Release, injury prevention, and rehabbing techniques, he became passionate in treating aches and pains throughout the body.

Coaching Philosophy:

Master the basics. Move with purpose. Make it happen.

The ability is already within you. Mastery begins when you choose to take ownership of your body and your habits. I believe every person has a purpose, and a key part of my coaching is helping you step into that purpose with confidence. Awareness creates possibility — action creates reality. I’m here to guide you through that action, remove the barriers, and help you tap into your true potential.

Personal Achievements:

  • Bachelors in exercise science
  • 5 year EMT career (NREMT) (CPR/AED)
  • Top 10 sectional swimming finalist

Fun Fact:

Travis participated in an Emergency Hurricane Deployment with FEMA in preparation for Hurricane Milton in October 2024. Where he spent one week in Havana, FL to run calls for the Tampa area, sleeping out of an ambulance at the Florida State Troopers training facility.

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

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veronika russell

Crossfit Coach + Nutritionist

Veronika Russell combines her expertise in nutrition with her coaching skills to offer a holistic approach to health and fitness. As a Nutritionist and Coach, she helps clients achieve their wellness goals through tailored nutrition plans and dynamic coaching strategies.

Experience:

With 2.5 years of experience as a coach and 5 years specializing in nutrition coaching, Veronika has a robust background in helping individuals improve their health and performance. Her practical experience includes 25 weeks of internships in clinical, sports, and food service settings, providing her with a diverse perspective on nutrition and fitness.

Specialties:

Veronika’s specialties lie in nutrition and CrossFit. She focuses on integrating effective nutritional strategies with CrossFit training to help clients enhance their physical performance and overall well-being. Her approach ensures that clients receive personalized and effective guidance to meet their fitness and health goals.

Coaching Philosophy:

Veronika believes in the mantra “Work hard, play hard.” She maintains working diligently is essential for achieving meaningful progress, while also emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and focused to reach those achievements. Her coaching philosophy is about balancing effort with enjoyment to foster both personal growth and sustained motivation.

Personal Achievements:

  • Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Dietetics
  • Set a high school pole vaulting record in 2019
  • Named 2nd Team All-Conference Soccer in 2018 & 2019

Veronika’s achievements reflect her commitment to excellence in both her academic and athletic pursuits, showcasing her dedication and competitive spirit.

Fun Fact:

Veronika’s favorite move in wrestling was the Cradle.

Certifications

Bachelor’s and Master’s in Dietetics Certification in Gymnastics through CrossFit Veronika’s academic background in Dietetics, paired with her CrossFit gymnastics certification, equips her with a comprehensive understanding of nutrition and fitness, allowing her to provide well-rounded guidance to her clients.

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eric van matre

Head Performance coach

Coach Emily brings a powerful blend of military discipline and coaching expertise to her dual role at The Arsenal Fitness as both Director of Operations and a seasoned coach. Drawing on her leadership experience as a Commissioned Officer in the Army and over a decade of hands-on coaching, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the team remains aligned, focused, and mission-ready. Her unique ability to lead with both structure and empathy makes her a cornerstone of The Arsenal’s success, both behind the scenes and on the coaching floor.

Experience:
Emily has 10 years of coaching experience with people of all fitness levels and ages ranging from as young as 12 to 70. She has worked with multiple businesses to create a fitness partnership and enhance their employee’s fitness, most notably was Muncie Power Products, Ontario Systems, and Elm Street Brewery. During her early years of coaching Emily completed an internship with Ball State Strength and Conditioning where she was the strength coach for the Ball State Women’s Soccer Team. Emily’s expert coaching has impacted 100s of individuals over those 10 years of coaching.

Specialties:
Emily’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including CrossFit, traditional strength and conditioning, and Olympic Weightlifting. Despite the method of fitness chosen, Emily’s goal is to create a fitness program that her clients will be committed to for the long haul and be able to carry the habits created with them throughout their entire lifetime.

Coaching Philosophy:
Emily’s philosophy is strongly centered around accountability and consistency. Everyone holds the keys to living a physically ‘free’ life, but this isn’t the reality for everyone. The body does not need us to be perfect all the time; it just needs us to be consistent. Emily believes that key habits of sleep, nutrition, physical fitness, and relationships are key to success. Accountability of our habits result in physical freedom.

Personal Achievements:
Emily’s fitness journey began at a young age where she played a variety of sports and has continued to this day. Once moving into college, she took up weightlifting as a sport and competed in USAW nationals. She has achieved many feats in her early army career such as earning commission and holding the current rank of Captain, training multiple of her soldiers to pass the AFT (Army Fitness Test) which led to their promotion, earning of the army commendation medal, and recently serving a 10-month overseas tour in the middle east.

Fun Fact:
Emily’s bucket list item includes visiting every National Park in the USA. She loves to take her dogs on these adventures.

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

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Emily Martin

Director of operations/coach

Coach Emily brings a powerful blend of military discipline and coaching expertise to her dual role at The Arsenal Fitness as both Director of Operations and a seasoned coach. Drawing on her leadership experience as a Commissioned Officer in the Army and over a decade of hands-on coaching, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the team remains aligned, focused, and mission-ready. Her unique ability to lead with both structure and empathy makes her a cornerstone of The Arsenal’s success, both behind the scenes and on the coaching floor.

Experience:
Emily has 10 years of coaching experience with people of all fitness levels and ages ranging from as young as 12 to 70. She has worked with multiple businesses to create a fitness partnership and enhance their employee’s fitness, most notably was Muncie Power Products, Ontario Systems, and Elm Street Brewery. During her early years of coaching Emily completed an internship with Ball State Strength and Conditioning where she was the strength coach for the Ball State Women’s Soccer Team. Emily’s expert coaching has impacted 100s of individuals over those 10 years of coaching.

Specialties:
Emily’s expertise spans a wide range of areas, including CrossFit, traditional strength and conditioning, and Olympic Weightlifting. Despite the method of fitness chosen, Emily’s goal is to create a fitness program that her clients will be committed to for the long haul and be able to carry the habits created with them throughout their entire lifetime.

Coaching Philosophy:
Emily’s philosophy is strongly centered around accountability and consistency. Everyone holds the keys to living a physically ‘free’ life, but this isn’t the reality for everyone. The body does not need us to be perfect all the time; it just needs us to be consistent. Emily believes that key habits of sleep, nutrition, physical fitness, and relationships are key to success. Accountability of our habits result in physical freedom.

Personal Achievements:
Emily’s fitness journey began at a young age where she played a variety of sports and has continued to this day. Once moving into college, she took up weightlifting as a sport and competed in USAW nationals. She has achieved many feats in her early army career such as earning commission and holding the current rank of Captain, training multiple of her soldiers to pass the AFT (Army Fitness Test) which led to their promotion, earning of the army commendation medal, and recently serving a 10-month overseas tour in the middle east.

Fun Fact:
Emily’s bucket list item includes visiting every National Park in the USA. She loves to take her dogs on these adventures.

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

GET STARTED!

BJ McKay

Owner + Head CrossFit Coach

Welcome to a transformative experience with BJ McKay, the Owner and CrossFit Coach at The Arsenal. BJ is here to help you break through your limitations and reach unparalleled heights in your fitness journey and beyond.

Expertise:
BJ’s specialties are your gateway to excellence: CrossFit group training, Olympic weightlifting, and transformative mindset coaching. Whether you’re just starting out or striving for peak performance, he is dedicated to pushing you beyond the ordinary.

Coaching Philosophy:
BJ meets you where you are but never leaves you there. Fitness is not just about hard training—it’s about overcoming life’s challenges and emerging stronger. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Strength is never a weakness,” as Mark Bell famously says, and BJ stands by this truth. Together, you’ll craft a personalized path to not just conquer the gym but to thrive in every facet of your life.

Achievements:
As an Athlete: BJ claimed the 2002 Gold Medal in the NCAA Mid-American Conference for Pole Vault, showcasing a commitment to excellence.
As a Coach: He has guided phenomenal athletes like Paul Panning, an NCAA All-American pole vaulter, and Kolton Nanko, who captured 5th place in the 2023 IHSAA State Championships and set a school record in pole vaulting.

Fun Fact:
When BJ isn’t leading the charge in fitness, he’s all about dancing, high fives, and embracing life with a light heart. After all, it’s about having fun and enjoying the journey.

Certifications

With top-tier certifications as a CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Coach, a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach, and a USATF Biomechanics Specialist, BJ brings a dynamic approach to your fitness goals. His journey from NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Coach to a decade of CrossFit coaching, combined with 15 years of shaping leaders at ADVISA, equips him with the tools to drive profound change.

GET STARTED!

GETTING STARTED IS EASY!

Simply fill out the form below and then schedule Your FREE intro session on the next page.

Shortly after we will be in touch with you to confirm your intro session. We are excited to meet you!

(give our form below a second to load, we love you for it!)

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OUR DROP-IN RATES

$20 per Visit
$50 Week Pass

FIND US AT
210 E Centennial Ave,
Muncie, IN 47303
(765) 240-1036

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