PHOENIX — Obstacle course runners start on their feet, but eventually end up on their stomachs, sides, even backs at they clamber through mud, over shipping containers, across netting made of mangled ropes.

Debbie Frazier wants her two children to grow up appreciating the outdoors. So she introduced them to hiking before they could walk.

This weekend was warm enough that locals seemed to collectively change their wardrobes from light layers to tank tops, shorts and other summer staples. If you cringe at the thought of your right to bare arms, then it’s time to take the Tough Lotus Challenge.

An eclectic group of four Valley women, the Heady Hoop Tribe aims to inspire others in the Phoenix area through the creative power of modern hoop dance.

Fittingly for a guy who’s about to become “big time,” Dion Jordan’s life has been hectic.

It’s currently reminiscent of the ruins of the Colosseum in Rome. But when the Chicago Cubs’ new spring training stadium and surrounding amenities are complete, there’s little doubt it will be among Mesa’s main attractions.

Desperation. That is what prompted John Rhode’s journey to success.

Chris Young didn’t have to dig too deep for motivation when his Saguaro girls basketball team assembled for preseason workouts in the fall.

RINCON, Puerto Rico — Several years ago, I found myself needing a certain type of vacation — one that would help me reset life and that combined my passions: fitness and sports, the outdoors and travel, healthy food and new people.

Lady and the Tramp had the right idea.

The scoreboard on Friday night showed a decisive 72-44 win for the Pinnacle boys basketball team over Sandra Day O’Connor, but really, it was Brandon Wechsler 1, Duchenne muscular dystrophy 0.

Gilbert teen Toan Ngo remembers well his past and hard work that’s led to the honor he received this week — a $150,000 military scholarship — and his future as a Marine.

Gardens can be great training grounds for fitness buffs.

Zach Miller came to Seattle in 2011 with a big contract and a penchant for catching a lot of passes.

This is the time of year when many of us notice that our waistlines are expanding, but our energy level is declining. It's the time of year when we resolve to do something about it. Health-club memberships tend to spike in January.

‘If growing up means it would be beneath my dignity to climb a tree, I’ll never grow up, never grow up, never grow up, Not me!”

Orangetheory Fitness, featuring group personal training, will unveil its new location during a grand opening 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 17 at Village Square at Dana Park, 3426 E. Baseline Road, Suite 118, in Mesa.