GANSEVOORT– This summer, Jeanie Barbera and Sarah Currier opened Custom Fitness, a unique 24/7 gym that provides its clients with everything they need for optimum health and wellness. The first thing you notice when walking in the door is how bright, clean and inviting it is, complete with new fitness machines and spacious exercise rooms.
“It’s the only fitness boutique in the area,” said Barbera, who began her fitness business in her garage 7 years ago. Many of Barbera’s clients have been with her since the beginning. “We just love the setup, we love what we do, and we love our clients. It wasn’t just our dream to expand, but our clients’ too.”
The name Custom Fitness is appropriate, since workout routines, classes and personal training are all designed for each individual member.
“We give our clients workouts and guidance, which a lot of gyms do not offer,” Barbera said. “Then they can refer to those workouts on their own, and even ask for more.”
Custom Fitness is perfect for those who are new to exercise or just want the tools to get in better shape the right way. Trainers will show members how to use the variety of machines and free weights, as well as give tips on better eating habits.
“We don’t sell supplements,” said Barbera. “We believe in teaching people how to eat and doing it the natural way. You’ll feel a lot better just eating the right way.” Custom Fitness has workshops that teach clients things like how to read labels, when to eat carbs or protein and how to avoid the pitfall of unhealthy restaurant foods.
Besides the wide range of free weights, cardio and strength machines, Custom Fitness offers classes such as spinning, cardio kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, Zumba and workout “boot camps.” One-on-one personal training is also available.
“You’re going to find an instructor that best fits you and your level of fitness,” said co-owner Sarah Currier. “It’s about finding what your lifestyle is and what you need to do to improve it.”
Custom fitness holds weight loss challenges, similar to “The Biggest Loser” competition. Over eight to twelve weeks, members compete to see who can lose the most weight. At the end of the competitions, the winners get prizes, such as gift baskets or gift cards. According to Barbera, the competition makes it fun and keeps the group on track for their goals.
Custom Fitness is not just for a certain type of person, either. Their motto is “all ages, all shapes, all sizes, and all abilities.” Barbera and Currier’s goal is lifelong fitness for everyone. There are even classes for kids that can help improve coordination, speed, agility and overall health, which is great for advancing sports performance.
For more information about Custom Fitness, including class schedules, membership fees and all member services, visit customfitnessgym.com.
