Former American Ninja Warrior, 'Neon Ninja', Joins Team at Palatine's 'BALL4Training'

Family fitness facility BALL4Training in downtown Palatine recently welcomed former American Ninja Warrior, Tavares Chambliss, to its training team. Chambliss was known as the 'Neon Ninja' during his time on Season 7 of the hit NBC show for his signature neon apparel.

A Wheeling, Illinois native, Chambliss said he always dreamed of becoming a ninja. He began his fitness career teaching kickboxing and graduated to mastering martial arts and personal training. His vision became a reality in 2015, when he was encouraged to try out for the television series on NBC, which follows competitors as they tackle difficult obstacle courses. He made it to the second round of the competition before being eliminated.

BALL4Training co-owner Todd Ball, who met Chambliss previously in their fitness careers, asked him to join the training team because he believes Chambliss is a perfect fit for the business.

"I am excited to have Tavares join our team, he has high energy, exceptional skills, and a charismatic personality that will be an excellent addition to our family atmosphere," said Todd Ball, co-owner of BALL4Training with his wife, Kasia. "He is great with kids, which is a big component of our business."

Chambliss will continue to run his Neon Ninja Outdoor Group Training program, which consists of high-intensity interval training and kickboxing. Participants complete the program on a steep slope; the focus is on uphill strength and speed training. It runs six times per week and is tailored to fit the abilities of participants.

Chambliss says helping people to become more confident in themselves is something he strives to do while he is training others.

"As we work together with clients toward the results they want, there is also the goal of helping them to feel better and stronger, more approachable and able to achieve what they want to in life," he said. "It's very rewarding to see this happen."

Area residents are invited to meet the Neon Ninja, along with co-owners Todd and Kasia Ball and the rest of the BALL4Training team at their Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House on Monday, October 30, 2017, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The ceremony will also be attended by Palatine Mayor Jim Schwantz. Those who attend can take a tour of the facility, and learn more about all of the fitness program offerings for children, adults and entire families.

For more information, along with class and training schedules, visit Ball4training.org.