Snap Fitness 24-7 manager Janice Forbes said the biggest appeal of the new fitness center in Smyrna is right there in the name.
“It’s the 24-7 access,” Forbes said. “Clients can work out at their convenience. People love that. It’s one of the big draws – a 24-hour facility. And there’s no contract. They’re not locked in for a year.”
While the center is staffed during the day and also on weekday evenings, members can use the facility any time. That’s because each member gets a card, sort of like a credit card, that opens the door. Members are not permitted to open the door for others.
“We stress that,” said Forbes. “You have to have a card to get in. It’s for security. We also have 24-hour surveillance cameras so we can monitor what’s going on even when a staff member isn’t here.”
Each Snap Fitness location is a franchise owned by individual investors, and there are now more than 1,200 centers throughout the country.
“If you’re a Snap Fitness member, you can use any Snap Fitness center in the country,” said Forbes. “That’s a great advantage if you’re traveling or maybe if you move.”
The atmosphere at Snap is a lot different than what people might expect when they think of a gym.
“This is a fitness center. It’s clean. It’s bright,” said Forbes. “We have all-new, state-of-the-art Cybex equipment including treadmills, arc trainers, stationary bikes, and resistance machines, along with an array of free weights.”
Forbes said the center accommodates everyone, from the bodybuilder who wants to do serious weight training to the person who just wants to walk a half-hour on the treadmill.
“We have a wonderful staff of trainers who are here to help,” she said. “When you join, you get a one-hour initial consultation with a trainer at no extra charge, and we can help you track your progress.”
Forbes said the staff is very encouraging and supportive.
“We’re also part psychiatrist. It’s not just about fitness. It’s about lending an ear,” she said. “This is a very friendly, welcoming, non-intimidating place.”
What does she enjoy most about the business?
“Sharing my passion with others and getting paid for it,” she said. “I always tried to make this a full-time career, and I’m blessed to have this opportunity. I’ve watched people have so much fun and feel better about themselves. It’s really rewarding.”
Formerly of Delaware Fitness Academy in Smyrna and the Village Gym in Middletown, Forbes is a bodybuilder, trainer, and aerobics instructor.
“I enjoy it. I set goals for myself and I try to motivate others,” she said. “I try to set a good example.”
Her daughter, Katie Forbes, is one of the assistant managers at the center. A graduate of Smyrna High, she’s been enjoying her new job.
“The people are great – the clients and the trainers,” said Katie. “We have a really good crew. We all work well together. We all pull together. Through rain or shine, we’re here for each other and we’re here for our clients.”
Katie said the “rain or shine” statement was actually proven during their health and fitness fair on Saturday, Oct. 24.
“The weather wasn’t very cooperative, but we pressed on, and we had a good turnout and a good time in spite of the rain,” she said. “We raised over $300 for the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition.”
Katie Turner, another Smyrna High graduate, is also an assistant manager.
Aerobics programs
Along with the Carter Road location, Snap Fitness offers aerobics at Victorian Springs Country Spa on West Commerce Street in downtown Smyrna.
“We needed a studio, and it’s a good fit,” said Janice. “We wanted to be able to offer aerobics. The interest is high. People love working out together.”
Free fitness day Nov. 14
Snap Fitness is hosting “Snap to It” Fitness Day on Saturday, Nov. 14, free and open to the public, but registration is required.
“You don’t have to be a member,” said Janice. “You just have to call and sign up.”
Activities will include cardio kickboxing, a “boot camp” exercise session, group training, a nutrition program, and more.
“It will give people a chance to try different things, so they can see if it appeals to them,” Janice said.
SNAP FITNESS 24-7
Location: 656 S. Carter Road, Smyrna, between Sunnyside Road and Route 13
Hours: Open 24 hours for members with security access card. Staff members on duty Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Phone: 653-8023
Website: snapfitness.com/smyrnade
