I was devastated when the local Curves that I faithfully attended permanently closed its doors. It wasn’t necessarily that it closed, but more because of the way in which it happened. While getting out of my car with the intention of exercising, I was instead greeted by the manager and a trainer and told that they were closed as in going out of business. My reaction and that of others was one of shock and disbelief. The manager and the trainer were in tears as they repeatedly delivered this message to others coming in to work out. They reiterated several times that we were family because of the camaraderie so many of us had shared on a regular basis. My heart ached for them as they would be losing their jobs that they had for several years. But to their credit, they worked along with us in giving some other exercise locations as viable alternatives.
Fit For Life located in Raytown, MO, a Kansas City suburb was one option available to the Curves members. For me, it turned out to be an excellent choice because it was the same proximity in distance as Curves was. As an added bonus they were offering a corporate discount at a lower rate than I had been paying at Curves.
Knowing that I could not afford to procrastinate with my exercise and health regiment for too long, I telephoned Fit For Life and told them of my situation. I then went and met with a Fit for Life representative a few days later after I settled down and accepted the reality of the situation I found myself in. She was quite pleasant and within a few minutes I was taking a tour of the facility.
As you enter the facility there is a reception area managed by a Fit for Life staff person. On the table are a number of locks that patrons can use to secure their personal belongings in the lockers immediately across from the front desk. There is also a sitting bench for your convenience. Patrons can purchase healthy snacks in their cafe area and mingle with friends while eating. Because this is also a rehabilitation center there is a therapy room for stroke victims where they receive medical services. Next to that is a bathroom.
The main floor is filled with the following items:
Cardiovascular equipment
Strengthening equipment
Step aerobics
Step circuit
Exercise Balls
Stretch and tone instruments
Pilate’s equipment
Some other services they offer are:
Group Exercise Classes for all levels
Line dancing
Hi/Lo impact aerobics
PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise)
Yoga
Massage therapy
Strength and power training
Personal training
Body composition analysis
Sensible Solutions Weight Management Program
Televisions are prominently displayed high on the wall to allow you to keep up with your local and national news while enjoying the benefits of your workout. Magazines racks are filled with reading material for your enjoyment.
There is an indoor whirlpool and separate showers and separate dressing rooms for their male and female members to utilize.
After the tour of the facility I was given paperwork to complete at home if I decided to become a member. Within a few days I finished the paperwork and made the choice to join up with them.
The paperwork included a Membership Agreement, a Health Information Form, a Physician Release Form, an Authorization Agreement for Automated Payment, Policies and Procedures and an Informed Consent Sheet.
You also receive a listing of the special classes and activities that are going on at the facility for the month where members can take advantage of.
Upon my decision to join Fit for Life a one-on-one orientation was scheduled. The trainer asked several questions of me and what my goals were. He then structured a fitness regime that would best fit my lifestyle. After that he took me around to the different machines and demonstrated the proper use of the ones that I would initially start off on for my first six weeks. After that time I will meet with him again to see what progress I’ve made and discuss any questions and concerns I might have and be introduced to more equipment to supplement my training.
It has been three weeks since I’ve made this transition and I am delighted to say it has been a good thing for me. While Curves served as a very important part to my exercise goals, Fit for Life has taken me to the next step.
The staff members do a great job of greeting their members by name which makes you feel special and not like a “nobody”: Their presence is also seen throughout the exercise area giving words of encouragement or giving additional help when needed. Clean towels and sanitizer are conveniently placed for your use. When you leave they bid you a good day. They seem to be very caring, kind and compassionate.
When you look around you can’t help but notice the majority of members are in the 50+ age range. No doubt this is because it’s also a therapeutic and rehabilitation center. Many are there by doctors recommendations. It is also located next to a senior citizen community. Membership is open to anyone 21 and above who is serious about exercising. There is ample parking available and the environment is clean inside and out.
While I did not like the abruptness of the change I went through, I have come to learn that sometimes sudden changes can be blessings in disguise. I am enjoying my new exercise experience and intend to aggressively work toward my weight and fitness goals.
If you’re looking for an up-to-date, modern and friendly facility where you can be reinvigorated, I encourage you to check out Fit For Life. Their website is www.fitnessandtherapy.com. The phone number is 816-313-1400 for additional information.
