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.”
