For Richie Wagner, moving to the High Country and opening up a fitness studio wasn’t a dream, but a requirement. As a lifelong athlete from Chicago, Illinois, Richie grew up playing every sport he could participate in, which eventually led him to bodybuilding. It was during this fitness journey that Richie happened to meet Nelle Lawrence, a fellow bodybuilder, and owner of the Chicago gym in which Richie both worked and frequented as a member.
Nelle, who grew up in Boone, NC, had moved to the city to pursue a career in fitness and body-building after college. In the process, she found herself running a successful gym and cultivating an encouraging space where other like minded athletes could gather. Around the time of the pandemic, she began returning home more frequently to the High Country, with Richie accompanying her, and it was here that the idea of Freedom Athletics Supp Shop was first born.
It’s not difficult to pick up on the good-hearted nature of locals here in Western North Carolina. For Richie, the connection with the community here was warm and instant, and for Nelle, being back home with friends and family reminded her once again of just how special this community is. After looking long and hard at locations for a fitness studio, FA Supp Shop opened its doors in May of 2024 in its current location at 7593 Valley Blvd here in Blowing Rock.
FA Supp Shop offers an extensive selection of the highest quality nutrition and fitness supplements, in addition to a wide range of fitness classes, from one-on-one training to reserved group activities and more. Richie and Nelle’s passion and expertise jumps out when you walk in the door, leading to a welcoming and exciting environment, no matter what level “athlete” you are. According to Richie, “Our main objective is to educate the people we talk to on the topics of nutrition, training, and supplements. (…) Bring your questions, your concerns, your thoughts, we are here to talk through them and make sure you are the best version of you.”
FA Supp Shop is open weekly Monday – Saturday. Fitness classes are available for booking all throughout the week, and open to both locals and visitors – no membership required! Visitors can stop by the store to shop in person, or visit www.fasuppshop.com to shop online for supplements and other nutrition needs.