From its catchy Latin name to its unique interior layout, from its energetic trainers to its distinctive approach to training, Para Bellum Fitness is different.
Located at the intersection of Empire and Highway 145, the increasingly popular Cortez gym specializes in nontraditional workouts, which, according to members, produce unparalleled results.
Included in Para Bellum’s workouts, which are designed by gym owner and certified level-one CrossFit trainer LJ Lyons, are exercises that include aspects Olympic weightlifting, running, throwing, jumping and gymnastics.
“We have medicine balls, kettle bells, tires, pull-up bars, pretty much everything you can think of,” said Lyons. “You get used to using your whole body.”
Unlike traditional workouts that hone in on specific areas of the body depending on the day, Para Bellum’s workouts target multiple muscle groups, thereby producing results.
“We don’t separate it out into leg days and arm days,” explained Lyons. “Everything you do here is to get ready for everyday life.”
Among the most unique aspects of Para Bellum’s workouts is the fact that they generally last between 10 and 20 minutes, rendering them ideal for individuals short on time.
“We bring the number of minutes down and the intensity up,” said Lyons. “If you do a five minute workouts and it completely wrecks you, you might benefit more than you would from a half-hour workout where you barely break a sweat.”
Thus far, for those who work out at Para Bellum, Lyon’s theory has proven correct.
“Our bodies have changed a lot,” said local resident Jaide Glenn, who has been attending Para Bellum for one year. “As far as stamina, it gets easier and easier every day.”
Among the eight daily classes currently offered at Para Bellum is an “essentials class,” which is ideal for inexperienced weightlifters and six advanced classes that put participants through a “workout of the day.”
Best times for the “workout of the day” are posted daily, offering individuals to compare themselves to other Para Bellum patrons.
“The total body workout, the high intensity, the competition, it’s great,” said former Mesa State football player Jarrod Wyatt. “It’s a good friendly environment and everybody pushing each other.”
Open to individuals of all ages and abilities and potentially beneficial for high school athletes, Para Bellum’s classes are priced at $45 for and eight-class package and an individual’s initial class is free.
“What we offer is fun and it gets addictive,” said Lyons of the unique experience offered by Para Bellum Fitness. “It’s definitely worth a try.”
