In Alpena, local fitness centres serve as vibrant hubs for community connection and healthy living, regardless of one’s athletic prowess. Fitness centre owners embrace diverse approaches to cater to different fitness preferences, ensuring clients have plenty of options to stay active.
Cristi “Skella” Johnson, founder of SkellaFit, discovered her passion for fitness through the necessity of cross-training for roller derby. Transitioning her focus to weightlifting, she established SkellaFit to create a welcoming space for exploring various exercise forms, from boxing to yoga. Johnson aims to empower individuals, challenging the negative mindset fostered by fitness marketing that makes people feel inadequate about their health.
Johnson believes self-care is often overlooked, as many prioritise others’ needs over their own. She questions, “Who takes care of you?” With a holistic approach, she encourages clients to embrace their strength and find gyms that support their body’s capabilities.
Zane Kipfmiller, owner of Zen 24 Hour Fitness, wanted to create a haven for powerlifters and young people in Alpena. Recognising a lack of activities for youth, he positioned Zen Fitness as a welcoming community space. Working in collaboration with SkellaFit, Kipfmiller aspires to foster a strong powerlifting community, including the initiation of a new powerlifting club.
Twice a year, Zen Fitness hosts powerlifting competitions, promoting healthy competition in an inclusive environment. Kipfmiller reassures newcomers not to fret about opinions of others. “Over time, people always learn that nobody cares what you are doing… A lot of people will be in the zone,” he noted.
The Bay Athletic Club (BAC), currently located at MyMichigan Medical Center, will relocate downtown in 2026. Owner Trina Gray’s inspiration stems from her father’s critical health journey, which highlighted the importance of fitness. After categorising the gym as a transformative force in his life, Gray aims for BAC to be a communal hub for various groups, including busy parents and retirees seeking vibrant, social outlets.
Joanna Cooper, owner of The Joshua Tree Studio and Spa, promotes community through a co-op studio model for instructors, allowing them to run their classes without financial pressure. Inspired by her brother’s passing during a time when many studios were closing, she established the studio to maintain yoga accessibility for all ages. Cooper partners with local organisations to enhance wellness offerings, and students often express a sense of balance gained through practice.
Alpena brims with opportunities for health and wellness, and venues like The APlex offer an array of activities, including fitness, tennis, and martial arts. Meanwhile, the ACC Wellness Center provides services to students and locals.
Alpena’s fitness centres cater to diverse needs, focusing on community and well-being. Owners like Kristi Johnson of SkellaFit and Zane Kipfmiller of Zen 24 Hour Fitness promote empowerment through fitness. The Bay Athletic Club offers community for busy parents and retirees, while Joanna Cooper’s The Joshua Tree Studio fosters inclusivity through a co-op model. Overall, Alpena provides numerous opportunities for health and social connection.
Alpena’s fitness centres embody the spirit of community and health, offering diverse options to cater to various individuals’ needs. With dedicated owners like Johnson, Kipfmiller, Gray, and Cooper, there is a strong emphasis on empowerment, social connection, and inclusivity in fitness. From traditional gyms to specialised studios, Alpena’s landscape provides a wealth of opportunities for new beginnings and wellness journeys.
Original Source: www.thealpenanews.com
