Fitness World: No more excuses

By Donna Rousseau
Freelance Writer

When it comes to improving health and fitness, 2009 is the year of “No More Excuses.”
According to TC Matthews, Fitness World owner, his plans for the new year focus on opportunity, accessibility and options. The facility has just celebrated its first year anniversary as a 24-hour accessible gym. The first in the area to offer extended hours complete with staffing, Matthews says the undertaking has been well-received.
“It’s been great for people working shifts, whether it be at the hospital or in a manufacturing plant. The off-hours aren’t as busy and the environment is casual and quiet. It’s just another option for clients, another way to break through the time constraints that keep people from achieving their fitness goals.”
Whether choosing to exercise after the night shift at the hospital or after working an 8-5 job, people seeking physical fitness and well-being through Fitness World can expect a comprehensive spectrum of services including classes, massage therapy, personal and sports-specific training, as well as nutrition and weight loss consultation and guidance.
“Michelle Twitchell, owner of Results Fitness and Weight Loss, has maintained an office within the facility for seven years now and is a valuable extension of our continuum of fitness services available to our clients,” explains Matthews. He describes Twitchell as a highly-educated, nationally certified personal trainer with a wealth of knowledge in nutrition. “Her guidance has helped many of our members enhance their well-being through proper nutrition combined with exercise.
“Our membership ranges in age and ability, from the young to the young at heart,” says Matthews. “And the facility is designed with this in mind. Along with all the additional services available, the facility features five workout areas. Power-lifting area is separate from the cardio room and cardio center and the aerobics room offers more privacy for class instruction.” The facility also provides a supervised children’s play center, open six days a week, where little ones can have fun while parents get in a workout.
Matthews adds, “This year will see an expansion in equipment and classes, as well as new instructors to join our already established instructor team. Zumba classes are new and Pilates is making a comeback.” In addition, the aerobics schedule will feature classes seven days a week and will include cycling, kickboxing, step aerobics, strength training, and body sculpting.
Martial arts is another branch of fitness offered under Fitness World’s roof. While classes are currently conducted in the aerobics area of the building, this year, the facility will dedicate a physical expansion of 7,000 square feet to a new Oxford Hills Martial Arts Center. In addition to martial arts instruction, the center will host nationally televised wrestling shows and power-lifting competition meets. Matthews has already scheduled events for the spring.
Even with the challenges of the economy, Matthews is excited for his clients’ fitness opportunities as he and his staff forge ahead in 2009. “This past December was our best in three years,” comments Matthews. “If December is any indication, 2009 is going to be a great year for fitness.”