BUSINESS PROFILE:

Circuit Circle Women’s Fitness Centre

Circuit Circle is more than just another circuit training fitness centre for women. From the moment one walks in the door, smiling friendly employees greet members by name and encourage members as they proceed throughout the circuit.

The Concept

Workouts are broken into 30-second and 45-second preset intervals in which members alternate using hydraulic resistance machines and maintaining a high heart rate through on-the-spot aerobic exercises. What sets Circuit Circle apart from its competition is the variety of exercise devises available to spice up the aerobic intervals. From Tummy Twisters, to stability balls, to lightweight free weights, and even a mini trampoline, the cardiovascular intervals are sure to remain a fresh and exciting component of the members’ workouts.

Within the centre of the circuit circle, staff member Joanna Isenor or owner Jo-Ann Spooner coach members to maintain proper body form and motivate the women to push themselves harder through the cardiovascular intervals. All staff will be certified through the Nova Scotia Fitness Association.

For those looking to burn a few more calories or to take a break from the circuit circle, the facility also offers a treadmill, a recumbent bike, and an elliptical machine. As a special post workout retreat, members can relax their tired muscles during a tanning session for a nominal fee.

Finally, no detail is too small, as the elegantly designed washroom facilities are fully stocked with complimentary toiletries just in case the members forgot something at home.

Fitness Can Be Fun

Jo-Ann Spooner has created a unique atmospheric appeal to her facility by incorporating little “rewards” for her members. Women who join for a year are eligible to win a trip for two (to be drawn on Valentine’s Day). Each day, members can treat themselves to a complimentary piece of fruit which is available through the revenue generated from water sales. They may also fill out a ballot after each workout to enter a monthly draw for a “Women’s Only Gift Package” valued at approximately $100 per month. The gift package has been made possible by partnering with other local businesses to cross promote women-oriented products and services.

In addition to rewarding positive fitness choices, Spooner also follows up with her member who have been absent for extended periods of time to determine the problem and discuss a viable solution for a return to fitness.

From Abstract Thought to Open House

"Karl Jackson of the Hants-Kings CBDC helped me immensely with preparing my business plan and helping to find affordable financing. He really knows his stuff," says Spooner, who accredits much of her success to the support received by the local CBDC office. Having opened in October 2005, Spooner’s membership sales have met expectations and she is looking forward to assisting many new members stick to their New Year’s Resolutions. "I love it, I love what I do, it shows, and that makes a difference to the members," Spooner enthusiastically emphasizes.

For more information on the Hants-Kings CBDC, please visit www.hantskingsbdc.ca.