Finding time to workout is something many struggle with, but longtime personal trainer Heather Barritt hopes the flexible hours of her new 24-hour gym will help make it easier for time-strapped Cortezians.
“I think Cortez needs a 24-hour facility,” Barritt said. “There are a lot of people with crazy schedules who maybe work late – hospitals,oilfield workers – who need somewhere to work out that works for them,” said Barritt.
“I’ve worked in gyms for a long time and have seen what works and what doesn’t. I decided to stop working for other people and start working for myself,” she said.
Her 24-Hour Power House Gym opened last Friday. It features brand-new Matrix and Body Solid equipment, as well as a wide selection of dumbbells and free weights.
“I actually had a request for 100-pound dumbbells, so we’ll be getting those in shortly; I’m very open to suggestions on equipment. We cater to the customer,” she said.
24-Hr Power House offers membership plans for $30 per month. The gym also charges an annual fee of $50 for an electronic key card which gets the member access to the gym and equipment any time. For those just stopping in, day rate access is $8.
Barritt also plans to stock a variety of supplements, and seeks to hire additional personal trainers to meet the demand the new business has already seen.
On Friday, six hours after opening the door for the first time, she had 10 memberships in place. From her previous job at another local gym, Barritt brought over 27 personal training clients.
“I’m actually to the point where I personally can’t do any more bookings, but I have another certified trainer who will be coming in. We will definitely be offering more personal training services,” said Barritt.
The new gym is in Cortez Plaza, a spot that Barritt chose strategically, as its close to hotels, including the new Hampton Inn.
“I’m excited to be here, it seems like Cortez is moving east, the hotels are here. This is a great location,” she said.