No judgments. Such is the creed of Benicia Fitness ( www.beniciafitness.com/) “the little gym that could.” In fact, the words “no judgments” are manifest on all of their signage inviting everyone to enter regardless of their physical condition. Everyone is equal. No judgments.
Located in the waterfront community of Benicia in San Francisco’s East Bay, Benicia Fitness has been owned and operated by fitness veteran Lori Bishop for the past decade. It’s a small, intimate gym on the corner of First and F Street in downtown Benicia surrounded by quaint retail shops, antique stores, real estate offices, and restaurants. It is not unusual for gym members to stroll down the street window shopping after a good workout or tasting free samples at the Farmers Market on First Street every Thursday night.
Bishop has been in the fitness industry since 1980, and she is a “hands-on” owner. She knows her members, and they know her. She was one of the first instructors to be certified by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), the largest international certification organization in the country and still teaches at least 5-6 group exercise classes every week. She continues to personal train, too, and has a full stable of competent trainers on staff to work with members.
Benicia Fitness offers a top-notch group exercise program including aerobics, yoga, Mat Pilates, indoor cycling, Pilates reformer classes, stretch, kick-box, step & interval classes. The club also offers a full circuit of selectorized machines, free weights, and cardio area including ellipticals, stair-masters, recumbent bikes, stationary bikes & treadmills.
It’s all about fitness in a low-key environment where everyone feels comfortable, and everyone – young and old – is welcome. Benicia Fitness is one of those friendly, old-fashioned gyms where the owner still cares, and you’re not just a number. It’s never crowded, but you can always find someone to help you with a spot or show you how to use one of the machines. And, remember – no judgments.
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