Politics & Government
GPCC Opens Doors to Expanded Fitness Center
Center increases space by fifty percent, adds strength equipment and nearly doubles cardio machines.
The has reopened the doors to its Fitness Center, following a $169,000 expansion that has rounded out the wing's amenities and machines.
The center took down two walls and removed a hallway, combining the old fitness room with what was an underutilized vending area, and increasing the overall space from 2,400 to 3,700 square feet.
This made room for 22 pieces of new or upgraded equipment, particularly of the free weight or plate machine variety. The center also purchased dumbbells for the first time, and fitness specialist Ed Bauso says he has already received positive feedback from patrons since the reopening last Friday.
"People really seem to love the added space, especially for things like working out with dumbbells," Bauso said. "We just didn't have the space to use them before."
In addition to the dumbbells, weightlifters will be happy to see the addition of Hammer Strength brand shoulder press, decline chest press, high row and linear leg press machines. Upgrades were also made to the pectoral fly, lateral pulldown, lateral arm raise, leg press and back extension machines. Bauso says the center replaced the old Cybex brand equipment with Paramount, a company he says often makes faster repairs to equipment.
Those who enjoy a good cardio session will also have the benefit of shorter wait times. The center added six ellipticals, four treadmills, two upright bikes, two recumbent bikes, one stepper, and one rowing machine. That's nearly double the number of cardiovascular machines as before the upgrade.
Knocking down the walls also allowed natural light to flow into the room through windows previously tucked away in the vending area. Combined with a new floor, a number of new mirrors, and mobile equipment like medicine and stability balls, the center has the look of an upscale gym.
That was the whole idea, says Joanna Rizzuto, program manager for the GPCC.
"It was time to get bigger and compete with some of the other gyms around," Rizzuto says. "A lot of people wanted free weights and we needed the space to do so."
Annual adult memberships for Plymouth residents start at $395, which also allows access to the GPCC's pool and aerobic classes. Additional adults or children can be added to the membership at discounted rates. Visit www.plymouthcommunitycenter.org to learn more.
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