Neo-Nazi Fitness Clubs Recruit Teens in U.S. via Social Media
The Global Project Against Hate and Extremism has uncovered a burgeoning network of neo-Nazi youth groups, known as Active Clubs, that are actively recruiting American teenagers through social media. These clubs, disguised as fitness groups, have seen a 59% increase in the United States since October 2023, spreading white supremacist ideology and propaganda, including quotes from Adolf Hitler. Originating from the Rise Above Movement, Active Clubs utilize a decentralized model developed by Robert Rundo and Denis Kapustin, offering guidance on evading law enforcement while coordinating street fights and propaganda. The groups emphasize fitness and community in their public messaging, but also host international events and generate revenue through merchandise, posing a growing transnational threat with 231 chapters documented across 28 countries as of 2025.
John Q. Hosedrinker