Donnelly, Idaho, is poised to gain its first-ever 24-hour fitness center, marking a significant development for the community. Residents will soon have a closer option for indoor exercise than the existing facilities in McCall and Cascade. The new gym, named Donnelly Fitness, is being established by local entrepreneurs Marta and Jonathan Frost.
A New Chapter for Donnelly Fitness
The Frosts are converting a 2,500-square-foot space within Roseberry Plaza, located at 454 W. Roseberry Rd., into the new fitness center. This initiative addresses a long-standing need in the area, eliminating the need for residents to make lengthy commutes to neighboring towns for gym access. “We are aiming to have it opened in March,” Marta Frost stated, generating excitement among locals. The gym is designed to be accessible around the clock for its members.
Facility and Amenities
Donnelly Fitness will include essential amenities such as:
- Men’s and women’s changing rooms.
- Showers and lockers.
- A variety of exercise equipment catering to diverse fitness needs.
The gym will also feature a separate room dedicated to fitness classes, creating a versatile space for group activities.
Fitness Classes and Potential Partnerships
The separate room in Donnelly Fitness will be used to host a variety of classes, including:
- Zumba
- Pilates
- Weight training
In addition to these fitness classes, there are discussions about potentially using the space for physical therapy sessions for patients from the nearby Cascade Medical Center, which operates an urgent care clinic in the same plaza. According to Cascade Medical Center CEO Tom Reinhardt, this possibility is under consideration, emphasizing that further evaluation and a decision by the Board of Trustees is needed.
Addressing the Community’s Needs
The driving force behind the Frosts’ decision to open Donnelly Fitness is the inconvenience faced by locals who have to travel to McCall or Cascade to access gym facilities. These trips often take at least 40 minutes round trip. “We have heard from many people about how much time it takes to drive to McCall to go to a gym,” Frost mentioned, highlighting how this commute has deterred many residents from engaging in regular fitness routines. This new facility aims to change that, providing a local, convenient option that reduces the time, effort, and fuel costs associated with traveling for exercise.
Membership Details and Enrollment
Donnelly Fitness will offer memberships at different price points, with options to suit various needs:
- A basic membership will be offered at $39 per month.
- A membership including access to fitness classes will be available for $49 per month.
- An initial enrollment fee of $35 will also apply.
Currently, software is being developed to enable online membership enrollment. In the meantime, individuals interested in signing up can contact Frost Management at 208-391-3711. This ensures that potential members have a way to register and gather information in the interim.
Impact on Roseberry Plaza
The addition of Donnelly Fitness is a notable development for Roseberry Plaza, which offers 15,000 square feet of commercial space. With the new gym, there will be seven vacant commercial spaces left in the plaza. Other current tenants include the Cascade Medical Center Urgent Care and Ivory’s Donuts and Treats. This indicates a vibrant and varied commercial environment within the plaza, with the gym adding to the range of services available.
Broader Context: Fitness Options in the Region
While Donnelly Fitness will be the first of its kind in the town, surrounding areas have existing fitness facilities. For example, in Cascade, the Domination Fitness Center offers strength training and fitness programs with a focus on helping clients achieve more. In McCall, there are other fitness options, although they require a commute for Donnelly residents. Additionally, some resorts in the region, such as The Lodge of Osprey Meadows, provide fitness centers, though these are generally tied to their respective resorts. National chains like 24 Hour Fitness also have locations in other parts of Idaho, but none close to Donnelly.
The Rise of 24-Hour Gyms
The introduction of a 24-hour fitness center in Donnelly aligns with a broader trend of increased accessibility and flexibility in the fitness industry. Many people work irregular hours or have busy schedules, making 24-hour gyms an appealing alternative to traditional gyms with limited hours. This model allows individuals to fit their workouts into their own schedules, leading to greater consistency and better health outcomes. The availability of 24-hour access is a key feature that Donnelly Fitness offers, making it convenient for a wide range of individuals.
The Importance of Community Fitness
Access to fitness facilities plays a crucial role in promoting public health and well-being. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical health and has also been shown to improve mental well-being. Having a local gym like Donnelly Fitness can enhance community engagement, providing a space for people to connect and support one another in their health goals. This development is not just about adding a gym; it’s about fostering a healthier, more active community.
Looking Ahead
As Donnelly prepares for the opening of Donnelly Fitness, anticipation is building. The new facility represents an important step forward for the community, offering a local solution to a long-standing need. The commitment of Marta and Jonathan Frost to provide a convenient, accessible, and well-equipped fitness center is poised to have a positive impact on the health and wellness of Donnelly residents. The projected opening in March is keenly awaited, marking a new chapter in the town’s development and commitment to healthy living.
