Anytime Fitness of Bellefontaine opened its doors again May 26, and since then has welcomed an influx of new members, along with a renewed enthusiasm among its staff and continuing members toward pursuing their health and fitness goals.
The bright and spacious 210 W. Columbus Ave., Suite 2, fitness center is bustling with activity again following the state mandated closure this spring as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Owner/operator Lyle Endsley said everyone is working together to ensure that safety measures are followed closely to protect the health of its members.
“We are very happy to be open again; there’s a culture here that feels like a family and we missed our members while they were away,” he said.
“Everyone has done a great job of doing their part and keeping it clean. We’re asking members to wipe down their equipment after every use and to bring their own towels from home. We’re using a higher-powered disinfectant now as well.”
At the 14,000 square foot facility featuring high ceilings, there is plenty of room to space out people and workout equipment, the owner/operator related. Foot traffic flow has been altered for entering and exiting the facility as well.
The building boasts a new HVAC system with great air flow, Endsley noted, and the occupancy has been set at 100 people.
“This large space was meant for these kinds of situations where we have to social distance,” he said. “We have spaced out cardio equipment with 6 feet between each machine, and also have taped off 6 feet measurements in the free weight area.”
There also are hand-sanitizing stations located throughout the facility, and employee’ temperatures are taken each day. Individuals who have been feeling ill are asked to stay home as well.
Currently, new members can sign up for $30 a month to receive 24-hour, seven days a week access to the facility with their own key. For an additional $39 a month, members can add classes next door at the LoCo Depot Training Station.
“For $69 a month, you have access to everything,” Endsley said. “We wanted to keep it affordable for our community.”
A three-month summer special also is currently being offered for the 24-hour gym, $79 for teens or $89 for adults. The Silver Sneakers program for senior citizens is available at Anytime Fitness as well, along with health plan discounts.
After signing up, members also have access to any of the Anytime Fitness locations throughout the country and even internationally.
Other gym amenities include personal training sessions, along with private showers located on site, which makes the workout spot even more convenient.
“It’s easy for people to be able to stop in here before work and grab a quick workout and a shower, and they’re ready to head to start their day,” the owner/operator said. “We’re also looking at the option of starting lunchtime workouts during the workday.”
Being located downtown has provided an advantage to Anytime Fitness as well, with local coffee shops, restaurants and other businesses located nearby offering partnerships and even some discounts for members. Previously located at Bellefontaine’s south end retail district, the fitness center moved to its current facility in December 2018.
“We’ve boosted our membership by 35 percent since our move,” Endsley said. “Most Anytime Fitness centers are located in strip malls, but this central location has worked out great for us.
“And more recently this spring, we really appreciate how the entire community has really rallied around the small businesses. I don’t think there’s a town better suited to come out of the pandemic than Bellefontaine.”
For additional information or to sign up, call (937) 595-0303, or visit https://www.anytimefitness.com/gyms/2478/bellefontaine-oh-43311.
