The former Ethan Allen store at SouthPark Mall will be bursting with energy soon.
Dynamic Fitness has nearly finished a months-long renovation into Strongsville's largest private gym, filled with high-end treadmills, elliptical trainers and bikes, as well as free weights and strength machines.
"My goal was to design a premier fitness center," said owner Bryan McIntosh. "I'm trying to do something that is first-class all the way."
The facility will open "as soon as possible," McIntosh said.
"I can guarantee it will be open on or before Jan. 2," he said.
The 15,000-square-foot gym at 16611 Southpark Center includes a group fitness room and an area to work with a personal trainer.
Charter members can still join for $20 a month, but that price will go up as soon as the facility opens, McIntosh warned.
The charter membership includes free group fitness classes, childcare, private showers, tanning and massage chairs.
McIntosh said memberships are flying off the shelves, so to speak.
"We've been blown away by the number of people," he said.
McIntosh, who previously ran a fitness business from 14415 Pearl Rd., started the process more than a year ago, seeking a variance to use the former furniture store for a fitness center.
He says he doesn't intend for his gym to compete with the city-owned Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, but to attract a different type of client.
"The rec center is great," he said. "We just offer an alternative."
Kids under 15 aren't allowed to use the facility -- other than the childcare room -- and McIntosh promises a "meathead free zone."
"The giant grunting gorilla that drops weights probably won't be comfortable here," he said. "This is all about delivering a great customer experience."
For more details, visit the Dynamic Fitness Facebook page or dfgym.com.
