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It's Easy Access At Anytime Fitness

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By LOIS KINDLE, The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 2, 2008

APOLLO BEACH - Some folks lose interest in using a fitness center because they can't work out when they want.

But that's not a problem at the new Anytime Fitness, said owners James and Tracey Aiena. Members can use the facility anytime of day if they purchase a key.

"That's the feature that usually appeals most to people," said James Aiena. "It's great for doctors, deputies or anyone whose schedule varies."

"We're all about convenience, cleanliness, service and state-of-the-art equipment," said Tracey Aiena. "The founders of this franchise Anytime Fitness did extensive research to learn what members most wanted. People want to get in and out, and they don't want to pay for features they don't use."

"I used to belong to LA Fitness in Brandon and got tired of circling the parking lot for 20 minutes during peak hours just to find a parking spot," said J.P. LaRose of Gibsonton. "Once inside, I would find myself waiting in line to use some of the equipment, and a one-hour workout became a two-hour ordeal every day."

"The 24-hour access at Anytime Fitness enables members to work out on their own schedules, instead of being restricted to specific hours so everyone isn't racing to get to the gym at the same time."

Staffed from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, the gym features Life Fitness' Signature Series equipment, which offers contoured seating, additional padding and smoother motion, Tracey Aiena said.

"It's like driving a Lexus," James Aiena added.

Everything at the gym has been designed with members in mind, he said. Even the machines were set up to provide a degree of privacy when in use. All cardio equipment has LCD screens with Brighthouse TV programming.

"Joining the gym was one of the best decisions I ever made," said Shirley Wakefield of Apollo Beach. "From the moment I walked through the door, they made me feel so comfortable. I'm physically and mentally stronger, and it's enabled me to regain my life and be a happier person."

After only seven months, the co-ed center has more than 800 members. The Aienas will probably cap the membership at somewhere around 1,000, they said.

Anytime Fitness is for adults 18 and older and teens who have parental consent. The center has two certified personal trainers - Heather Overton and Nick Clark - that members may hire to develop a more personalized and structured workout.

Prices for membership vary according to the chosen plan and payment method. Some discounts are available, and prospective members may try out the facility with a one-day guest pass at no cost or obligation.

"Working out can help you lose weight, increase strength, improve mobility and balance and give you an overall feeling of wellness," James Aiena said.

"Thirty minutes, three times per week, and you will see dramatic results," Overton said.

ANYTIME FITNESS

WHAT: Fitness center with 24-hour access

WHERE: 6110 U.S. 41 N.

STAFFING HOURS: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-5 p.m. Friday, Saturday

INFORMATION: (813) 641-7171 or www.anytimefitness.com.

THE OWNERS

WHO: James and Tracey Aiena

AGES: 38; 35

FAMILY: son, Cole, 12; daughter, Arianah, 16

HOMETOWNS: New Orleans; Pensacola

BACKGROUND: Quality control for produce at Whole Foods and Global Organic; worked at the family's open-air market in Hammond, La.

QUOTE: "Fitness is a part of our lives. We don't just sell it; we live it" - Tracey Aiena.

Reporter Lois Kindle can be reached at (813) 865-1553 or lkindle@tampatrib.com.

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