Need more gyms!!!!

[novelchick]

the gyms are getting very crowded. The Wellness Center is out because its so far away. We need another one on Sumter side. The Rec centers gyms are getting so crowded you stand around waiting for machines. The cost is high for these gyms. Just as expensive as NY so why do we have to stand around and wait for machines. Come on residents. We need to complain!! Let the Villages know what we want!!! more gyms are at the top of my list!!

[rshoffer]

:agree: completely!!!

[NJblue]

That was the one thing that took me by surprise about TV. After having looked at numerous other 55+ communities where a rec center was synonymous with having a fitness center that was available at no extra cost, I just assumed that every rec center in TV would have some fitness equipment. I was amazed when our sales rep said that only three of them were so equipped - and you had to pay extra for them. When we visited in mid-April it didn't seem too bad from a wait perspective, but I can imagine that during the snow-bird season things can be a problem. Given that the cost a fitness center must be a very small fraction of the cost of a golf course, it would seem that the proportionality of fitness centers to golf courses is a bit out of whack.

[Whalen]

That was the one thing that took me by surprise about TV. After having looked at numerous other 55+ communities where a rec center was synonymous with having a fitness center that was available at no extra cost, I just assumed that every rec center in TV would have some fitness equipment. I was amazed when our sales rep said that only three of them were so equipped - and you had to pay extra for them. When we visited in mid-April it didn't seem too bad from a wait perspective, but I can imagine that during the snow-bird season things can be a problem. Given that the cost a fitness center must be a very small fraction of the cost of a golf course, it would seem that the proportionality of fitness centers to golf courses is a bit out of whack.

Wholeheartedly agree.
:agree:

[Talk Host]

I was a member of the Wellness Center for over a year. In the winter, it was so crowded that it was a real problem. When it came time for me to renew my membership, I commented to the sales rep that it was pretty crowded most of the time. Her answer was a curt "....get use to it." I didn't renew. I have been a member of "to your health" in Belleview for over two years now. Not a new gym, but lots of equipment, and I have some very good friends there now. I do weight training for an hour, then play raquette ball with my friends for an hour. Great workout.

JLK

[villager99]

only real advantages to the wellness center are golf cart accessibility and the indoor pool. periodically expansion plans service but then mysteriously get squashed.

[Cassie325]

Can anyone speak to the recreation center work out areas? I have heard there are two...at Lake Miona and Mulberry? Are there additional costs/fees etc? Are guests or visitors allowed to use them?

I am not trying to highjack....just wouldn't want to go or send anyone else to the Wellness Center if there are that kind of crowds.

[Best Mom]

Cassie,
Yes, there are fees. I think walk in for a day is a ten dollars.:shrug:
I really don't know much about it. I know there are no locker rooms.:sad: I know the equipment is full most the time in this season.

novelchick- I so agree! Look at the thread about what people don't like in the Villages. People have been complaining for years.:cus:
At my exercise this AM they had to cut off the number of people at 72. People get there 45 minutes early because the room is so full. The instructor took down the names of those turned away...about 26. She is trying for a larger room.
However, my year around neighbors just exercise at home rather than try to get in.

Up North I exercise a ton and it is through Senior Citizens centers which are free and I pay 100 bucks for 3 months for use of a gym and large pool, hot tub and locker room with sauna and showers. Oh do I miss that. Guess where I lose weight !!!

[villager99]

fitness centers are located at regional recreational centers there are currentlythree fitness rooms: mulberry , laurel manor and colony cottage.

[uujudy]

Hahahaha! I'm sorry folks, I know you're all serious about this, but I have the most incredible fitness access at my house... we call it "the door." Outside that door I have a street, and since I'm in a villa, my street is a loop. I can walk or run just like I'm on a treadmill, but the beautiful scenery changes every few feet and I can wave at people.

Seriously, coming from the land of deep snow and from living on the side of a mountain, the fact that the weather here is nice enough to be outside in JANUARY and I can walk on a FLAT street is amazing to me. Why would you want to pay big bucks to do this inside when you can do it outside for free? :shrug:

[Russ_Boston]

I think Judy makes a great point. How many of us up north belong to gyms that we go to a lot at first but then let it slide? The TV lifestyle brings all sorts of other options for fitness into play: walking, running, Pickleball, tennis, golf (especially if walking), biking etc. And let's not forget one of the best exercises SWIMMING which is abundant in TV.

I do know that there are also numerous other indoor activities such as yoga, Pilate's, line dance etc that are held inside but not at the 'gym' facilities.

In your own home you can buy simple items that allow you to do a full range of weight resistance exercises such as pull-ups, push-ups, dumbbell lifts, sit-ups, resistance bands etc. etc. A whole set up like this takes up no space and costs less than $100 to get started.

Organized gyms are great if you get into the group motivational aspect but the lack of them is certainly no barrier to being in decent shape in TV.

[novelchick]

gyms for some of us are a neccessity and here is why. i don't do outside because since i've been here i've had four skin cancers on face. So getting outside swimming, and golfing is enough outdoor activity. i also must have a gym for the weights and machines. have to build muscle at our age and with osteoporosis its #1 priority. One member posted there is a gym in Lk Miona. There is no gym there. There are only three. Mulberry, Laurel Manor and Colony All are crowded and not cheap!! why should we pay that kind of money and have to stand around and wait for machines!! We are desperately in need of more gyms.With more and more people moving in, they better start building more gyms!!! And the cost is just as high as i paid in NY. only difference is that in NY the gyms were huge. More gyms are on my no 1 list of what we need here!! and most people don't have an extra room in their homes (they do make bedrooms small as is) to add on a gym room.

[chachacha]

my significant other is visiting for the winter and has been going to colony cottage but he agrees machines are always crowded and there are very few free weights. he says machines never give an accurate reading of what you are really lifting. anyone want to invest in a franchise for a gold's gym on
466A?

[Russ_Boston]

i also must have a gym for the weights and machines. have to build muscle at our age and with osteoporosis its #1 priority.

That is why I mentioned the 'home' resistance items (dumbbells, resistance bands, push ups etc.). Yes, you can build (maintain) muscle tone at home without machines. I'm just saying that going to a center isn't the only way. I think some people are using it as an excuse why they don't go and that shouldn't be an issue.

You don't need a whole room dedicated to a gym. My equipment fits in the very corner of my den/office:

I have a pull up bar that attaches to the door (10 seconds to install when needed) which also serves as my push up device and roman chair sit-ups. $30

I have 5 levels of resistance bands that fold up into inches when not used. Less than $30. You know the type that they use at physical therapy.

Variable adjustment dumbbells that range from 5 to 40lbs. Somewhat expensive at $50-$75.

An exercise ball for balance exercises and stretches (you know the type) that is my largest item at 36-40 inches around. $25

I'm not insinuating that I'm in great shape but that is only due to my own laziness and lack of dedication to the pursuit. But I don't use not getting to a 'gym' as an excuse.

I do understand the skin cancer issue but are early morning/ late afternoon walks out of the question?

If those of us that could use something other than the gyms did this then there would be more room at the gyms for those that must use them due to age or other restictions.

With respect - Russ

[Matthew]

Why am I paying 1,920 dollars a year???. About 160 dollars a month...There are NO good walking trails!! I have lived in other developments... and this is a sin. Not what I was told while buying.

[ConeyIsBabe]

That is why I mentioned the 'home' resistance items (dumbbells, resistance bands, push ups etc.). Yes, you can build (maintain) muscle tone at home without machines. I'm just saying that going to a center isn't the only way. I think some people are using it as an excuse why they don't go and that shouldn't be an issue.

You don't need a whole room dedicated to a gym. My equipment fits in the very corner of my den/office:

I have a pull up bar that attaches to the door (10 seconds to install when needed) which also serves as my push up device and roman chair sit-ups. $30

I have 5 levels of resistance bands that fold up into inches when not used. Less than $30. You know the type that they use at physical therapy.

Variable adjustment dumbbells that range from 5 to 40lbs. Somewhat expensive at $50-$75.

An exercise ball for balance exercises and stretches (you know the type) that is my largest item at 36-40 inches around. $25

I'm not insinuating that I'm in great shape but that is only due to my own laziness and lack of dedication to the pursuit. But I don't use not getting to a 'gym' as an excuse.

I do understand the skin cancer issue but are early morning/ late afternoon walks out of the question?

If those of us that could use something other than the gyms did this then there would be more room at the gyms for those that must use them due to age or other restictions.

With respect - Russ

However, I have all of those pieces of equipment also, the hand weights, the exercise bands, the ball........ but do I use them ????? Of course not; IMHO it takes so much more effort to work-out at home, alone, than getting in one's car/golf cart and going to the group facility. Maybe it's the social aspect of working-out in a group atmosphere :pepper2: Bad back & bad knees keep me away from golf, pickelball, etc.

When I ever get to be a TV resident, my main hangouts will be (1) Fitness Center (2) Rec Center Pool (3) restaurants (4) stores (5) clubs

So...... as a humble WANNABEE..... count me in as a TV-prospective buyer who would be greatly encouraged to know there is adequate Fitness Centers available without having to wait (that's really unacceptable) :pepper2:

[Russ_Boston]

Why am I paying 1,920 dollars a year???. About 160 dollars a month...There are NO good walking trails!! I have lived in other developments... and this is a sin. Not what I was told while buying.

CIB - I hear ya. There are many group sport activities in TV that don't require the gym. But many people do need the social aspect for motivation.


Matthew - Not sure who you are or where in TV you live but there are literally miles of sidewalks and miles of cart paths (although that could be dangerous) and miles of limited traffic neighborhoods to walk in. One glance around TV any morning and you'll see that hundreds (thousands maybe) of people already know this. Pure walking/run/bike trails would be a bonus but that should never stop you from a good walk workout in TV. When I was there last year I walked 2 miles up to LSL and then 2 miles back to Largo almost everyday. There is a sidewalk that goes up Canal St. for almost the whole length.

[rshoffer]

my significant other is visiting for the winter and has been going to colony cottage but he agrees machines are always crowded and there are very few free weights. he says machines never give an accurate reading of what you are really lifting. anyone want to invest in a franchise for a gold's gym on
466A?There is a brand new Omni Fitness Center on 466A about a mile outside TV going toward 441/27. It looks awesome. The poor fella who owned it before (then called pulse fitness) died of an MI. As an avocation I'm a certified fitness trainer and I'm drawn to gyms like flys are to.... uh, watermelon. Anyway, I am used to weight lifting gyms rather than "fitness centers"....eg, here's a link to the gym I was a part owner of in Danville: www.muscle-fitnessfactory.com .... So far, the gyms in TV are not what I was used to so I a) convinced the Mrs to give me the den in our Camillia which I converted to a gym and b) walk, walk, walk and ride my bike OUTSIDE. Never made a lick of sense to me to take a golfcart 2 miles to a fitness center to walk 2 miles on a treadmill in this beautiful weather. On that note, I'm taking Bumpkus for a 5 mile walk.

[rshoffer]

There is a brand new Omni Fitness Center on 466A about a mile outside TV going toward 441/27. It looks awesome. The poor fella who owned it before (then called pulse fitness) died of an MI. As an avocation I'm a certified fitness trainer and I'm drawn to gyms like flys are to.... uh, watermelon. Anyway, I am used to weight lifting gyms rather than "fitness centers"....eg, here's a link to the gym I was a part owner of in Danville: www.muscle-fitnessfactory.com .... So far, the gyms in TV are not what I was used to so I a) convinced the Mrs to give me the den in our Camillia which I converted to a gym and b) walk, walk, walk and ride my bike OUTSIDE. Never made a lick of sense to me to take a golfcart 2 miles to a fitness center to walk 2 miles on a treadmill in this beautiful weather. On that note, I'm taking Bumpkus for a 5 mile walk.PS... I'm the guy doing the bicep curm machine in the one picture.:pepper2:

[ConeyIsBabe]

It is a full-featured, family-oriented athletic club and wellness center. Many services and programs are included with your membership; 75+ group exercise and aquatics classes, a 25-yard salt-water swimming pool, a warm pool, hot tub, saunas and steam rooms, a women's only workout center, three weight floors, racquetball, basketball, outdoor sand volleyball, tennis courts and so much more. Clubnw.com :pepper2:

My membership includes my friend, and we both pay $32 each, per month.

To TV-Management....... perhaps a similar facility located at a central area, would be a profitable asset to The Villages ?

[Russ_Boston]

PS... I'm the guy doing the bicep curm machine in the one picture.:pepper2:

Impressive!

Even when I ran a lot I could never seem to run on treadmills. Others seem to love running on them. Who knows!

[Whalen]

It's not really a debate about indoor activities or outdoor activities.
Considering the amount of money spent on bonds, amenities fees etc, many people expect at least some equipment in the recreation facilities which do not entail a fee.
As stated before, most 55+ communities have work out facilities available as part of the total package.
I have visited communities with as few as 500 homes which had gyms as big as the regional centers here.:shrug:

[wilt2448]

I will be spending March in TV (first visit). The purpose of the trip is to determine whether I would like to live there. Hearing that there are no reasonably priced workout facilities is a BIG minus to me.

I've been working out three days a week (resistance training, walking, streching, balancing) as well as basketball for about 13 years. To not have that available would really make me think twice about moving there no matter what else I like about the area. I simply cannot get in to working out at home alone even if I had the eqpt.

The town I live in has a tax supported facility which costs resident seniors
(55+) $25 annually for unlimited usage. It is like a well equipped tax supported Y. VERY surprised that an active adult retirement community does not have anything like that. Seems like a big oversight to me.

[Bogie Shooter]

It's not really a debate about indoor activities or outdoor activities.
Considering the amount of money spent on bonds, amenities fees etc, many people expect at least some equipment in the recreation facilities which do not entail a fee.
As stated before, most 55+ communities have work out facilities available as part of the total package.
I have visited communities with as few as 500 homes which had gyms as big as the regional centers here.:shrug:

and probably had a pool, a golf course, and a couple of card clubs. Its no different than the golfers paying to pay and not everyone supporting(paying) for golf. If you want the gym you pay.....not out of ammenities.

[Whalen]

and probably had a pool, a golf course, and a couple of card clubs. Its no different than the golfers paying to pay and not everyone supporting(paying) for golf. If you want the gym you pay.....not out of ammenities.

But aren't executive courses free?

[NJblue]

If you want the gym you pay.....not out of ammenities.

This was the point that I was making above. The amenity fees are overwhelmingly skewed toward golf. TV could divert a very small percent of its amenity fees away from golf (such that it would likely not even be missed) yet the result could be a doubling of the fitness facilities. Yes, I understand that TV is built around golf, but not all people here are golfers yet their amenity fees are being used to subsidize the golfers.

[jojo]

NJ BLue, I agree. I think it's a small investment to expand fitness facilities. The demographics of the population that will be moving into the newer areas should point to the need for more fitness centers. It's been a part of their lifestyle. From my first visit to TV to being a resident I have always thought this was a weak area. We should however acknowledge the classes offered at the recreation centers. These help.

[Dynasty]

There is a nationwide facility called Anytime Fitness. They have over 2000 locations nationwide. This is a 24 hour, 7 days a week facility. They are located at 16770 S Hwy 441 in Summerfield. They also have a place in Leesburg. Membership is about $30/mo.(less than the price of one round of golf) They have one 3 miles from my house here. I plan to check out the Summerfield location when I'm down. Heck, I can even use a facility when I stay overnight on my drive down. Check it out.

I for one do not want anything added to my amenity fees because, the laundry list would just keep growing. If I did have to add anything my desire would be a wider, smoother, safer golf cart path along Buena Vista Blvd.

[Best Mom]

My point is the gyms are over crowded. I love this place and it beautiful but it needs more gyms for the size of the population. At this stage of our lives we all need to exercise. Many have arthritis and need to keep moving.

Let me compare The Villages to a beautiful house. The house needs more lights. With the lights the owners can live better. It is the same with The Villages, they need more gyms. With more gyms people can exercise easier and stay healthier. As the house is beautiful so is The Villages.

[Russ_Boston]

I guess this could be debated all day.

I think the bottom line, as Coach Belichick says, "it is what it is".

TV doesn't hide the fact that they put an emphasis on golf. Yes there are many who don't use the 'free' execs but they were told before they moved in about the amenities fee and what it covers. My sales agent, Carol, was very upfront about this and she showed us where the 'gyms' were and how many (few) there are.

It seems like there are full service fitness centers near TV as mentioned in this thread. I find it funny how most people want EVERYTHING on the campus.

The other point of emphasis by my agent was the swimming pools. Granted they are not indoor but it is surprising how almost no one mentions them in terms of exercise on this thread. Obviously TV has put money into these as well and I think there are almost 40 of them?

My point is that TV isn't making false promises in my opinion. I know pretty well what I'm getting and what I'm not when I decide to move.

[rekop]

It's not really a debate about indoor activities or outdoor activities.
Considering the amount of money spent on bonds, amenities fees etc, many people expect at least some equipment in the recreation facilities which do not entail a fee.
As stated before, most 55+ communities have work out facilities available as part of the total package.
I have visited communities with as few as 500 homes which had gyms as big as the regional centers here.:shrug:

I agree. Back when my mother was in her 60's, people didn't exercise and go to health clubs the way they do now. Its been an evolving change of lifestyle, and most retirement communities do now offer exercise facilities as part of their package because that's one thing retirees are looking for. I can't imagine why The Villages didn't pick up on that. Yes you can bike and walk, and have your own home exercise equipment to try to get around it, but as far as I'm concerned, the lack of decent health clubs here is a deficiency. To remedy this, I suggest that people that are here on sales trips looking at property, mention it to the sales people. For residents, when we have our annual survey, write it down as a suggestion. If they hear about it from enough people, maybe they'll do something.

[Reezie]

I was a member of the Wellness Center for over a year. In the winter, it was so crowded that it was a real problem. When it came time for me to renew my membership, I commented to the sales rep that it was pretty crowded most of the time. Her answer was a curt "....get use to it." I didn't renew. I have been a member of "to your health" in Belleview for over two years now. Not a new gym, but lots of equipment, and I have some very good friends there now. I do weight training for an hour, then play raquette ball with my friends for an hour. Great workout.

JLK
HI
We are new to TV and just read your post. We would like to know what the name is of this place and where it is located. From what we are reading in some of the posts, we are not interested in the gyms here or The Wellness Center. But are interested in joining something while we are down here. My fiancee' is interested in weights and raquette ball, while I am interested in weights, and fitness machines. If you could answer me here, or pm me, we would really appreciate it.

Thanks
Reezie

[uujudy]

I guess this could be debated all day.

. . . I find it funny how most people want EVERYTHING on the campus.

The other point of emphasis by my agent was the swimming pools. Granted they are not indoor but it is surprising how almost no one mentions them in terms of exercise on this thread. Obviously TV has put money into these as well and I think there are almost 40 of them?

My point is that TV isn't making false promises in my opinion. I know pretty well what I'm getting and what I'm not when I decide to move.

I heartily agree with you on this, Russ. From our first visit to TV until we came back to buy, the map of TV was a permanent fixture on our kitchen counter in Utah. We checked the new listings every night, and we narrowed our housing search based on the amenities we wanted. I wanted to be close to the pools, so our new house is within walking distance to 3 pools -- the family pool, the neighborhood pool, and the Regional Rec Center pool. (And after I show Mr. Judy your excellent break-even costs for the priority membership, we'll have a country club pool. Thank you!) We checked out all of the pools in the neighborhood before we bought our house.

Everybody on this forum says to spend the time to do your homework before you buy. If a gym is important to you, go check out the gym. If a walking trail is important to you, go walk on it. If a dog park is important, go check it out. TV doesn't advertise on the animal channel or the exercise channel -- they advertise on the Golf Channel. IMHO everything else you get here is a bonus.
Just my 2 cents,
Judy
PS: A family visited our pool over the holidays, and everyone (from grandpa to the baby) wore long-sleeved UV protection swim shirts and goggles while they were at the pool. They spent hours there every day, and they had a wonderful time. Where there's a will, there's a way.

[Russ_Boston]

Well stated Judy,

I wonder if people in these other communities that have a full service gym but only 1 golf course have a thread that's titled "We need more golf courses!!"?

Give me the golf (and softball, and pools and pickleball....)

[rshoffer]

I agree. Back when my mother was in her 60's, people didn't exercise and go to health clubs the way they do now. Its been an evolving change of lifestyle, and most retirement communities do now offer exercise facilities as part of their package because that's one thing retirees are looking for. I can't imagine why The Villages didn't pick up on that. Yes you can bike and walk, and have your own home exercise equipment to try to get around it, but as far as I'm concerned, the lack of decent health clubs here is a deficiency. To remedy this, I suggest that people that are here on sales trips looking at property, mention it to the sales people. For residents, when we have our annual survey, write it down as a suggestion. If they hear about it from enough people, maybe they'll do something.What annual survey?

[rshoffer]

HI
We are new to TV and just read your post. We would like to know what the name is of this place and where it is located. From what we are reading in some of the posts, we are not interested in the gyms here or The Wellness Center. But are interested in joining something while we are down here. My fiancee' is interested in weights and raquette ball, while I am interested in weights, and fitness machines. If you could answer me here, or pm me, we would really appreciate it.

Thanks
ReezieThere is no racquette ball in TV. The Omni fitness gym on 466A (headed out of TV toward 441/27) is great. The Wellness Center is at the hospital but is usually jammed with people. If you live below 466, Omni fitness is as close as The Wellness center.

[NJblue]

This is not an issue of being "deceived" by TV. Nor is it an issue of golf versus fitness - we can clearly have both. Right now there is a huge imbalance in favor of golf and a paucity of fitness centers. By looking at just the spare change in the amenity budget it would be easy to significantly improve the number of fitness facilities. Don't forget that TV doesn't just advertise on the golf channel and there are a lot of TV residents who chose to live here despite the golf and not because of it.

I think the point of this discussion is that it just makes good business sense to add more fitness facilities. As was pointed out, there are some people who will choose not to buy here because of its deficiency in this manner. This will likely become more of an issue as more baby boomers come into the market. This means fewer dollars in the developer's pockets and also fewer dollars in home owner's pockets if they decide to sell. If I were the developer, I would add fitness facilities to every future rec center (or at least every two) to improve the attractiveness of my product. Speaking for myself, the proximity to the Colony Cottage fitness center was a very large part in our decision as to where to buy.

Besides, do the dedicated golfers really want to play behind a group of duffers who are only playing because they are trying to get their money's worth from their amenity fees? Wouldn't you rather see them sweating their butts off on a treadmill or pretending to be Arnold Schwarzenegger on the weight machines?

[Russ_Boston]

Besides, do the dedicated golfers really want to play behind a group of duffers who are only playing because they are trying to get their money's worth from their amenity fees? Wouldn't you rather see them sweating their butts off on a treadmill or pretending to be Arnold Schwarzenegger on the weight machines?

You got me there!

I'm all for both if it's feasible. TV is first and foremost a golf community. But times do change and money does drive everything so perhaps we'll see a shift.

[rekop]

This is not an issue of being "deceived" by TV. Nor is it an issue of golf versus fitness - we can clearly have both. Right now there is a huge imbalance in favor of golf and a paucity of fitness centers. By looking at just the spare change in the amenity budget it would be easy to significantly improve the number of fitness facilities. Don't forget that TV doesn't just advertise on the golf channel and there are a lot of TV residents who chose to live here despite the golf and not because of it.

I think the point of this discussion is that it just makes good business sense to add more fitness facilities. As was pointed out, there are some people who will choose not to buy here because of its deficiency in this manner. This will likely become more of an issue as more baby boomers come into the market. This means fewer dollars in the developer's pockets and also fewer dollars in home owner's pockets if they decide to sell. If I were the developer, I would add fitness facilities to every future rec center (or at least every two) to improve the attractiveness of my product. Speaking for myself, the proximity to the Colony Cottage fitness center was a very large part in our decision as to where to buy.

Besides, do the dedicated golfers really want to play behind a group of duffers who are only playing because they are trying to get their money's worth from their amenity fees? Wouldn't you rather see them sweating their butts off on a treadmill or pretending to be Arnold Schwarzenegger on the weight machines?

Well put, NJBlue

[mommullr]

Is the fitness center at Colony Cottage busy at all times of the day? How far would the Omni fitness facility be from the Village of Duval? Thank you for your post.

[Whalen]

"I think the point of this discussion is that it just makes good business sense to add more fitness facilities. As was pointed out, there are some people who will choose not to buy here because of its deficiency in this manner. This will likely become more of an issue as more baby boomers come into the market. This means fewer dollars in the developer's pockets and also fewer dollars in home owner's pockets if they decide to sell. If I were the developer, I would add fitness facilities to every future rec center (or at least every two) to improve the attractiveness of my product. Speaking for myself, the proximity to the Colony Cottage fitness center was a very large part in our decision as to where to buy."


You said it a lot better than I could have.:bowdown:

[rshoffer]

"I think the point of this discussion is that it just makes good business sense to add more fitness facilities. As was pointed out, there are some people who will choose not to buy here because of its deficiency in this manner. This will likely become more of an issue as more baby boomers come into the market. This means fewer dollars in the developer's pockets and also fewer dollars in home owner's pockets if they decide to sell. If I were the developer, I would add fitness facilities to every future rec center (or at least every two) to improve the attractiveness of my product. Speaking for myself, the proximity to the Colony Cottage fitness center was a very large part in our decision as to where to buy."


You said it a lot better than I could have.:bowdown:BTW, the Colony facility is usually not crowded at all between 5-7 pm.

[rshoffer]

Is the fitness center at Colony Cottage busy at all times of the day? How far would the Omni fitness facility be from the Village of Duval? Thank you for your post.colony is NOT busy after 5 om.... OMNI is less than 10 min from Duval (I live in Duval). Just get on 466A and head east toward 441/27. It's about 1-2 mi outside TV, brand new. If you live in Duval it is definitely closer than The Wellness Center.

The fitness centers in TV are not amenities... they are PROFIT centers. Thus, decisions to expand or build more, I suspect, require the litmus test of, "will they be profitable".

[Muncle]

A couple points of no particular value--

Many folks, especially new ones, have great ideas for something that TV lacks. We've gone thru this a few times with a performing arts center vis a vis the Savannah Center. Walking trails, bike paths, covered pools, and similar enhancements have also been discussed. One commonality of all these things is that they would cost money. They would cost US money. Right now, the developer is apparently putting a Fitness thingie in at least every second big rec center. I would not willingly pay additional amenity fees to see more of them added to existing facilities.

Last June, July, and August, I heard no complaints about overcrowded fitness places. People, it's Snowbird season. There's a 45 minute wait to go to the toilet. TV cannot be built to provide ultimate service from Xmas to Easter and then be unused the other 9 months.

At the risk of being chastised for cynicism --- once again we have people who were lied to by the sales rep and never would have moved here if only . . . We have others who know of many places that have far better amenities at 1/2 the cost. Well, we love ya and like having you as neighbors. We realized everyone has a right to point out shortcomings. But if it's really that bad and you really can't stand it, remember that the road you came in on goes both directions.

[Russ_Boston]

TV cannot be built to provide ultimate service from Xmas to Easter and then be unused the other 9 months.

Excellent point oh wise one!

May I steal that quote?

[graciegirl]

If only I had the b...., I mean the courage to say it like you do Muncle. But I so agree.

[Bogie Shooter]

"But if it's really that bad and you really can't stand it, remember that the road you came in on goes both directions. "
That sure hit the nail on the head!
Well done....Muncie

[rekop]

Yeah Muncle, "if you don't like it you can leave" - we've all heard that before. Frankly I see nothing wrong with pointing out shortcomings, and trying to make things better. The Villages is a great place, but its not a perfect place. There is always room for improvement no matter what community you live in.

[NJblue]

One commonality of all these things is that they would cost money. They would cost US money.

Well, I'm not sure that that's true (unless my sales rep and contract that I signed lied to me). The amenity fee for existing residents is fixed to the rate of inflation. Hence doubling the number of fitness centers won't cost anything more than doubling the number of pickleball courts or swimming pools or whatever. From an existing resident perspective, their amenity fee is going to go up at the same rate whether we add more fitness centers or not.

What it may mean (see below for an exception), however, is that adding another fitness center or two will come from the same budget that is used for the other amenities such as golf and tennis and pickleball. My point has been that the cost of a fitness center relative to the cost of a golf course is almost insignificant and hence not much would have to be given up from other amenities in order to provide another fitness center or two.

Of course, this assume that a fitness center is treated as an amenity. As has been pointed out above, there is a charge for a fitness membersship and hence is not an amenity such as executive golf or swimming, etc. There may be some subsidy coming from the amenity fee for fitness centers, but as of now, 100% of the fixed and operational costs for the fitness centers do NOT come from the amenity fee. If this business model persists, then the addition of another fitness center or two would have an even smaller impact on the other amenities.

Yeah, we newbies can be a PITA with our suggestions, but bear in mind that we represent the next wave of people that is retiring. To ignore our desires/suggestions and keep things the way they were 5 or 10 years ago may come at the cost of TV becoming obsolete. A good business will change and adapt to a changing marketplace. A business that ignores its customers and clings to an old business model is asking to become the next buggy whip maker.

[Barefoot]

If enough people mention that they want expanded fitness facilities on the annual survey, I'm sure TV will provide them. Since people pay to use the fitness facilities, it shouldn't cost a lot out of the amenitites budget.

And while we're at it, why not turn one of the golf courses into a dog park?
Before you start throwing shoes, I'm kidding! :boxing2:

[ConeyIsBabe]

Yeah, we newbies can be a PITA with our suggestions, but bear in mind that we represent the next wave of people that is retiring. To ignore our desires/suggestions and keep things the way they were 5 or 10 years ago may come at the cost of TV becoming obsolete. A good business will change and adapt to a changing marketplace. A business that ignores its customers and clings to an old business model is asking to become the next buggy whip maker.


Very well said NJblue :agree:

[Best Mom]

Can anyone tell me why different fees are charged at the Wellness Center? :shrug:
I just learned about that today. My friends in Summerhill are paying less than my friends in Mallory for the same membership. I bet it is another case like the amenity fees where it depends on when you bought your home here.
Yes, my friends in Mallory are paying more and have been here a shorter time.:undecided:

[ConeyIsBabe]

Can anyone tell me why different fees are charged at the Wellness Center? :shrug:
I just learned about that today. My friends in Summerhill are paying less than my friends in Mallory for the same membership. I bet it is another case like the amenity fees where it depends on when you bought your home here.
Yes, my friends in Mallory are paying more and have been here a shorter time.:undecided:

BestMom..... I remember recently reading where someone posted the different fees which are based on peak day/time (costing more money) and days/times when the fitness center is less crowded - therefore costing less money. It seems like an effort to regulate the flow of participants. :ohdear:

[rekop]

...Yeah, we newbies can be a PITA with our suggestions, but bear in mind that we represent the next wave of people that is retiring. To ignore our desires/suggestions and keep things the way they were 5 or 10 years ago may come at the cost of TV becoming obsolete. A good business will change and adapt to a changing marketplace. A business that ignores its customers and clings to an old business model is asking to become the next buggy whip maker.

Good points, NJBlue. Many people have never played pickleball for example, before coming here, so that may not be a draw for them when purchasing. But many of the younger folks will be looking at health clubs and exercise facilities.

[Autoshow]

It's not really a debate about indoor activities or outdoor activities.
Considering the amount of money spent on bonds, amenities fees etc, many people expect at least some equipment in the recreation facilities which do not entail a fee.
As stated before, most 55+ communities have work out facilities available as part of the total package.
I have visited communities with as few as 500 homes which had gyms as big as the regional centers here.:shrug:

Almost everything in TV has a fee,something the sales people do not tell you.

[Best Mom]

Yes CIB that is true. :agree:
I am not talking about that.
My friends have the exact same memberships but the ones in Summerhill(old side) could keep renewing their membership at the same price they first paid which is much cheaper than my friends in Mallory(new side) have to pay.
It is interesting to have the same facilities but different prices. It reminds me of the way they price the amenity fees.

[ConeyIsBabe]

Yes CIB that is true. :agree:
I am not talking about that.
My friends have the exact same memberships but the ones in Summerhill(old side) could keep renewing their membership at the same price they first payed which is much cheaper than my friends in Mallory(new side) have to pay.
It is interesting to have the same facilities but different prices. It reminds me of the way they price the amenity fees.


Now I AM confused !:shrug: :ohdear:

[homeball]

Yes CIB that is true. :agree:
I am not talking about that.
My friends have the exact same memberships but the ones in Summerhill(old side) could keep renewing their membership at the same price they first paid which is much cheaper than my friends in Mallory(new side) have to pay.
It is interesting to have the same facilities but different prices. It reminds me of the way they price the amenity fees.

I think that was possibly a concession to the folks who live on the old side since they do not have the same infrastructure and conveniences as the new side. (Golf cart paths are actually in the roadway versus being separate and apart for example). Some folks on the old side feel that, when the developer crossed 466 to come south, they were put on the back burner so to speak since all the developers resources were directed south and no improvements were being done north. Another point to consider is that possibly the folks (old side) were grandfathered since they were villagers so much longer.

It's not unusual for longtime members of gyms, etc. to have their membership fees frozen in place. I'm a member of the national Bally chain of gym clubs in NY. I've been a member since 1975 when it started out as the old Jack LaLanne's. When Bally's took over in the late eighties they froze the membership fees of the then current members to keep them on. It was the newbies who paid the higher fees. My membership fee hasn't gone up in 20 years. I'm still paying $150 a year. And there are two story gyms to boot. I guess I'm in for a major adjustment when I soon move to TV. :laugh:

-Dave-

[F16 1UB]

And many fitness centers in the surrounding Cincinnati area are crying for membership. Some are giving 2 weeks free and no contracts. Then there's TV newspaper circulation that keeps increasing. "Only in TV". :shrug:

F16

[Russ_Boston]

but as of now, 100% of the fixed and operational costs for the fitness centers do NOT come from the amenity fee.

OK, if this is the case, then it is strictly a business decision. In that case Muncle makes a great point that those new fitness centers might be deserted during the 'off' months. We know that most people don't want to pay for services that they can't use so why would these centers be profitable? Or would it get to a point that they would need to be subsidized by the amenity fee which is only tied to inflation and not new additions.

Maybe, since I'm not there yet, that I missing the point. From what I've just re-read, Colony center is not busy at all times and it does cost something to join beside the amenity fee. Omni center is just down the road, albeit not cart accessible, and is a private enterprise so it wouldn't impact the amenity fees for the residents. It appears that this is only an issue during Jan-Mar and only during the busy hours (early morning I presume).

For those that haven't seen it there is a very good article in this month's TV magazine about a couple who are getting seriously fit using the wellness center. There are also other articles relating to fitness in TV and the hospital. Worth a read: http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/thevillages/0109/

OK, I know that this mag is a TV marketing piece and it doesn't hurt to voice concerns but I wonder how many others (my guess is the silent majority) are finding life in TV to be much better for their physical fitness than it used to be up 'north'?

[novelchick]

Colony may not be busy after 5 pm but who wants to go then. Most gym people want to go in the morning to get it over with. Evenings are spent at the square, dancing, or with friends or at clubs, etc... so of course the gym is less crowded. My point is Colony is busy every morning. i'm on my way not and guaranteed it will be busy!!! WHY should we have to wait for machines when we pay a very expensive gym membership!! Villages need more gyms, period. Baby boomers are coming in and they are used to gyms. and honestly everyone should be in a gym. Helps in other sports, such as golf, pickelball, softball, etc... we all need gyms!! Health is my no 1 priority. without it, i have nothing else!!

[homeball]

Talking about crowded gyms, even out in the real world there are times when the gyms no matter how big are crowded. I would never consider going to Bally's during the week after 4PM. That's when all the working people start to come home and pile into the gym. And the weekends are crowded also. If I go on a weekend, it's usually after 3PM.

I'm not a morning person. :mornincoffee: But, if I wanted to go to an activity at a popular time when everyone else wanted to go, I would expect it to be crowded. I bet that, if one monitored the OMNI gym, one would probably find that there are times when the place is just jam-packed. And if not now, eventually it will be when more and more people hear about it and sign up.

So it begs the question about how many more gyms would be needed in TV to significantly alleviate the congestion. If the gyms were free (included in the amenities), how much criticism would one hear or would people just adjust their schedules to make use of the gyms at less busy times.

:agree: I agree that TV could use a couple of extra gym facilities to help alleviate some of the crowded conditions during snow bird season. And then maybe some of the extra gyms could be closed during the off peak season to consolidate operating costs and make the use of the remaining facilities more efficient. Just my opinion.

-Dave-

[rshoffer]

Well, I'm not sure that that's true (unless my sales rep and contract that I signed lied to me). The amenity fee for existing residents is fixed to the rate of inflation. Hence doubling the number of fitness centers won't cost anything more than doubling the number of pickleball courts or swimming pools or whatever. From an existing resident perspective, their amenity fee is going to go up at the same rate whether we add more fitness centers or not.

What it may mean (see below for an exception), however, is that adding another fitness center or two will come from the same budget that is used for the other amenities such as golf and tennis and pickleball. My point has been that the cost of a fitness center relative to the cost of a golf course is almost insignificant and hence not much would have to be given up from other amenities in order to provide another fitness center or two.

Of course, this assume that a fitness center is treated as an amenity. As has been pointed out above, there is a charge for a fitness membersship and hence is not an amenity such as executive golf or swimming, etc. There may be some subsidy coming from the amenity fee for fitness centers, but as of now, 100% of the fixed and operational costs for the fitness centers do NOT come from the amenity fee. If this business model persists, then the addition of another fitness center or two would have an even smaller impact on the other amenities.

Yeah, we newbies can be a PITA with our suggestions, but bear in mind that we represent the next wave of people that is retiring. To ignore our desires/suggestions and keep things the way they were 5 or 10 years ago may come at the cost of TV becoming obsolete. A good business will change and adapt to a changing marketplace. A business that ignores its customers and clings to an old business model is asking to become the next buggy whip maker.do the amenity fees go down in deflation?

[novelchick]

i'm not sure how the gyms are associated with amentities fees because they are in a recreation center already established and the fee they charge would well cover their equipment in no time!! They must realize that we are the new baby boomer seniors who are interested in keeping fit and going to the gyms!! With the growing population they have to add more. there should have been a gym put into Lk Miona which is a nice size rec center that could hold a gym easily. Colony can't hold many more clients in the gym w/o frustration from the residents. The weight area is so small when you work out on the bench and someone is standing over you holding weights what if one of their weights drop on your head??? Whew - that might be a lawsuit waiting to happen!!

[rekop]

I agree. The health club at Colony is pretty basic. Not to hijack the thread, but speaking of Lake Miona, they didn't even put in an adequate sports pool at Lake Miona. It doesn't have lane lines painted on the bottom, which is a requirement for competitive swimmers! My husband has to travel up to Colony or over to Laurel Manor for his swimming. A number of people have brought it to their attention, over the past few years, and nothing has been done.

[dhs9099]

Me too - I couldn't believe that the "rec centers" didn't have a gym floor with a place for indoor volleyball, basketball, etc.

[2BNTV]

I was a member of the Wellness Center for over a year. In the winter, it was so crowded that it was a real problem. When it came time for me to renew my membership, I commented to the sales rep that it was pretty crowded most of the time. Her answer was a curt "....get use to it." I didn't renew. I have been a member of "to your health" in Belleview for over two years now. Not a new gym, but lots of equipment, and I have some very good friends there now. I do weight training for an hour, then play raquette ball with my friends for an hour. Great workout.

JLK

Talk Host:

Thanks for the info. I wasn't aware that racquetball courts were available around TV. I would love to start racquetball when I move to TV. Is the cost reasonable?

Planet Fitness at $10 per month would be a viable option if there was going to be one in TV. It seems there is a need for one or more. Planet Fitness in CT does not have raquetball courts and or pools. Probably to keep cost of membership at $10.

I agree that working out and playing racquetball will keep one physically fit.
As you know, you use every muscle in your body playing racuetball.

[Russ_Boston]

Not that I won't join the MVP club or something but one of the main pleasures of living in a place like TV is the abundance of outdoor fitness. You can join pickleball leagues, tennis leagues, swim laps in the pool (I agree that Miona should paint some bottom lanes!), bike the trails, run/walk the trails, rollerblade the trails, play paddleball, outdoor volleyball, softball leagues, golf (almost 4 miles of walking per 18 if you walk), etc.

If I join MVP it will be for the group sessions. Some people need specific weight resistance training and for that they need an indoor facility but for me I'll take the great outdoors!

[batman911]

The attached link will show you what a real fitness facility should look like. This one in located in Citrus Hills, FL which is just down the road from TV. I believe TV community/homeowners association should be lobbying for these types of facilities. There should be several built in TV. Does anyone think that liability may be the reason for the lack of free weights and facilities in TV?

http://www.citrushills.com/bellavita.asp

[Russ_Boston]

The attached link will show you what a real fitness facility should look like. This one in located in Citrus Hills, FL which is just down the road from TV. I believe TV community/homeowners association should be lobbying for these types of facilities. There should be several built in TV. Does anyone think that liability may be the reason for the lack of free weights and facilities in TV?

http://www.citrushills.com/bellavita.asp

Nice. But a quick glance of their 'other' facilities show 3 golf courses, no pickleball courts, no executive golf courses, 3 outdoor pools. And many other things such as no places of worship, limited golf cart accessibility etc. etc. etc.

Now would you make that trade? How many of those lavish gym facilities would TV need to build to satisfy 100K people?

While it would be nice to have it all but comprise does need to be struck. For my money, give me the outdoor facilties that we have.

[graciegirl]

What percentage of the total population use the gyms on a regular basis?

What is your guess? I guess less than ten percent.

Of the 16 nearby neighbor homes of people we know well, none use the gyms.

Our next door neighbor runs and does triathlons. Others are exercising in many other ways.

[Avista]

My husband and I use the gym at Colony almost every day. It can be crowded at times, and I think it is expensive. We do need more gyms and I think the price should be lowered. Perhaps a special rate for after 5pm or some way a discount could be worked in.

[Taj44]

The attached link will show you what a real fitness facility should look like. This one in located in Citrus Hills, FL which is just down the road from TV. I believe TV community/homeowners association should be lobbying for these types of facilities. There should be several built in TV. Does anyone think that liability may be the reason for the lack of free weights and facilities in TV?

http://www.citrushills.com/bellavita.asp

Thanks for the link - yes exercise facilities are certainly needed, and many many retirement communities have them at no cost to the residents. Why we have so few here, and they are so expensive, is beyond me. Even Spruce Creek, which is nowhere near the nice community that The Villages is, has a free exercise facility. There are many times of year when we can't exercise outdoors - in the winter it gets cold, in the summer the heat can be just awful, and you get the afternoon thunderstorms. I believe if the facilities were here, the residents would use them. We need to lobby for this when the annual survey comes out.

[ConeyIsBabe]

Having an uncrowded fitness center or gym close to my home would be a tremendous motivator for me to relocate to TV ~ someday ~ I'm still hanging in :shrug:

[kentucky blue]

The more of us baby boomers who make their home in TV, the more facilities will be needed . Retirement gives you more opportunities to exercise and get yourself in good shape, both physically and mentally. We need more gyms, since activities like golf, are not really a form of exercise , it's a wonderful social event with friends and family. One of the reasons i like our home so much is, it's so close to the 2 best gyms in TV.Only time will tell if "the powers that be" listen. :shrug:

[graciegirl]

I am guessing that less than ten per cent use the gyms.

I am not saying that those ten percent's needs do not need to be addressed and are not important.

I am just guessing that would be the percentage.

What percentage play golf?

Pickleball?

Just sayin'.

I bet that this has been addressed in some demographic research.

Maybe we should do a ...whatchamajigger to see how many use the gyms. I probably am wrong.

[Russ_Boston]

Golf isn't really a form of exercise?

Maybe not if you get in a cart and ride but a full length 18 hole walk is about 4.5 miles over the course of 4.5 hours. Granted it is done in 200 yard segments but it is still 4.5 miles.

More importantly we say things like "we should lobby for this". Where do you propose the money would come from for new more lavish (never mind free) gyms? Our amenity fee is based on the current setup. Lobby all you want it won't happen. There are not that many new centers left to be built and they are not going to retrofit the old ones never mind make them free.

Another point that I've made many times when talking about gyms is this: If it were such a needed thing that everyone uses (although I think Gracie is correct about most people not using them) then why doesn't an outside business venture step in and start creating them like crazy on 466 or 466A or 44? MVP is the only outside vendor to date and the jury is still out to see if they will be financial successful at current rates.

The reason that many other real estate developments offer free gyms is simple. They don't have what TV has! They need to offer something to entice buyers. Many of these developments are failing. TV is still closing 300 homes a month (give or take).

[chuckinca]

Can Village residents use the school gyms after school hours?



.

[manaboutown]

On my visit to TV I checked out the exercise facilities within the development where I could and to be honest I found them to be sadly lacking. I am not too interested in golf but I do cardio workouts on ellipticals and recumbant bikes several days a week and use free weights and some machines 3 - 4 days per week. Gotta have a gym convenient and reasonably priced near where I live.

At TV I drove to the gym in Spanish Springs on a Sunday morning and found it was closed! After it opened I found it was very expensive and quite small although adequately equipped for a small number of attendees. Where I live I pay $15/mo for a fully equipped gym which is open 24 hours a day (24 Hour Fitness). Personally, I cannot live a healthful life without a gym since that is how I get the most exercise in the least amount of time.

If I do another lifestyle visit I will look for a gym nearby but off the reservation or consider building and opening one myself.

[2 Oldcrabs]

Is there a YWCA or a YMCA nearby ?

[Russ_Boston]

or consider building and opening one myself.

First real solution anyone has offered. My guess is that others will try as well. If there is such a demand as you all think then it would be a no-brainer, right? My money is on 'not'!

[Avista]

I do not play golf, I do not play pickle ball. I DO go to the gym almost every day. Prices need to come down or special pricing for different times of day.

[Taj44]

Is there a YWCA or a YMCA nearby ?

Unfortunately there is no "Y" nearby. I've never seen anyone walking the 18 hole courses here, and I used to do it all the time up north. They are not set up for walking - long distances between some holes, and there are pace of play issues.

We have no way of knowing how many people would use a gym/health club without doing a survey. We can all guess any number we want. But the thing is, if the gyms were here, there would obviously be more people using them. People don't have any uncrowded gyms to use now!

To advertise the Villages as an active retirement community, and not have the gyms to support the residents is a major gaff in my opinion. As to whether or not the facitlities should be provided - what percentage of Villagers do clogging? how about polo?, how about billiards? how about paddle tennis? We provide facilities for all of the above and many many more - there is a small niche of people who support each activity. If I recall there were no paddle tennis courts at all so no one was doing it until they installed the paddle tennis court up by Seabreeze.


Of course there are people who sit in the house and don't exercise for various reasons - infirmities or illness, lack of motovation or interest, etc., but for those who do need to exercise it would be great to have the facilities. We really have no idea how many people that would be without doing a good survey. Some people can't walk long periods of time or jog or play pickleball which by the way, is one of the most injury prone sports in the Villages, but they can exercise on a treadmill or elliptical. As someone else mentioned, if you are a babyboomer, you are part of a group that has fueled the rise of healthclubs since the 1980's. I've read various statistics that show the percentage of health club members that are aged 55 and older ranges from 20-30%. That is huge. When we don't offer the health club facilties in the Villages, my opinion is that we are really missing the boat. You try living here in the summer when the heat index is 110 degrees and walk an 18 hole golf course. Good luck - they'd be scraping you off the cart path. I ride 20 miles/day on my bike, and had to be on the bike before 7 a.m. or it was just not do-able because of the heat. An airconditioned facility where I could do aerobic activity would be bliss.

[l2ridehd]

Such a lively discussion and so many opinions. Sounds to me like a great business opportunity. One of the downsides to all the clubs off campus is they are not golf cart accessible. And one of the BIG advantages of TV is being able to go everywhere by golf cart. So leasing space near Walmart on 466 and in Colony Plaza and someplace along 441 that is golf cart accessible and starting a really good fitness center seems like a business that could not fail. Anyone want to buy stock? When you have lemons .......

[ajbrown]

Such a lively discussion and so many opinions. Sounds to me like a great business opportunity. One of the downsides to all the clubs off campus is they are not golf cart accessible. And one of the BIG advantages of TV is being able to go everywhere by golf cart. So leasing space near Walmart on 466 and in Colony Plaza and someplace along 441 that is golf cart accessible and starting a really good fitness center seems like a business that could not fail. Anyone want to buy stock? When you have lemons .......

My wife and I have talked about this for the last two years. Like you said, if you could get some space that is golf cart accessible, drop in a Planet Fitness or Golds, I think it would do well. We have talked about it, read about it, but alas, I simply do not have the :censored:

[graciegirl]

..

[Ajack]

That is why I mentioned the 'home' resistance items (dumbbells, resistance bands, push ups etc.). Yes, you can build (maintain) muscle tone at home without machines. I'm just saying that going to a center isn't the only way. I think some people are using it as an excuse why they don't go and that shouldn't be an issue.

You don't need a whole room dedicated to a gym. My equipment fits in the very corner of my den/office:

I have a pull up bar that attaches to the door (10 seconds to install when needed) which also serves as my push up device and roman chair sit-ups. $30

I have 5 levels of resistance bands that fold up into inches when not used. Less than $30. You know the type that they use at physical therapy.

Variable adjustment dumbbells that range from 5 to 40lbs. Somewhat expensive at $50-$75.

An exercise ball for balance exercises and stretches (you know the type) that is my largest item at 36-40 inches around. $25

I'm not insinuating that I'm in great shape but that is only due to my own laziness and lack of dedication to the pursuit. But I don't use not getting to a 'gym' as an excuse.

I do understand the skin cancer issue but are early morning/ late afternoon walks out of the question?

If those of us that could use something other than the gyms did this then there would be more room at the gyms for those that must use them due to age or other restictions.

With respect - Russ

I agree with you Russ. Wife and I have walked every day in New England were the weather is far from ideal. We walked when it was 15 degrees with a chill factor below zero and we walk last summer when it was in the mid 90's and humid.
I have worked out with "home resistance" which my gym teacher called isometrics, for over 30 years for practically nothing. They could put a facility in my back yard and I would not use it. I have incorporated my workouts as part of my lifestyle. To me it is something I do daily, like brushing my teeth or eating healthy food. My "workouts" cost me zero dollars and I will compare my results to anybody who uses costly facilities.
OK. I concede that some may lack the discipline to do it on their own, but you will be surprised what you can do if you really focus and keep distractions at a minimum.

[Taj44]

Actually I was referring to a survey of actual residents, not TOTV'ers. People who sit in their house and spend a lot of time on the computer may not be a good indicator of those who go out or would go out and exercise. And many people on TOTV don't even live here, or do not live here full time so they wouldn't be familiar with the climatic conditions that make an indoor gym desireable.

[NJblue]

First, I'm not an accountant, so I might be missing something in this analysis, but, a quick look at the budgets for both the VCCDD and SLCDD shows that the fitness centers are huge profit centers for the CDDs.

Here are the links (go to the bottom of each report where the fitness centers have their own section):
http://www.districtgov.org/departments/budget/images/FY10-11%20Adopted%20Budget%20VCCDD.pdf
http://www.districtgov.org/departments/budget/images/FY10-11%20Adopted%20Budget%20SLCDD.pdf

Note that on the actual expense/revenue results for 2008/2009 (on page 22 of the VCCDD report) that total revenue for all centers that were open in that year was $695,546 (plus some sort of transfer line item of an additional $95,689)and that total expenses were $400,707. Thus the profits were somewhere between $300,000-400,000 or almost double the expenses.

What does this mean? Even if you agree with the notion that fitness centers should not be part of the amenities covered by amenity fees, it would seem that the complaints of being over-charged for this service are valid. The rates could be roughly half of what they are and still cover expenses. Of course, lowering the fees will increase usage and hence will either result in more waits for each equipment piece or the need for more centers with a corresponding increase in expenses. It is safe to say, however, that there should be a happy medium between reduced rates and increased number of centers.

One thing that I find very interesting in looking at the budgets is the fact that the fitness centers are treated as a separate category in the overall budgets. I wonder if this is a sign of a future intent of the CDDs to eventually sell these off to a private firm. By singling out all the budget items for these centers, it makes it easy for a prospective buyer to see what the profit margins for them are (huge).

[Larry Wilson]

The last few posts are good posts. My wife complains all the time about this and said all the exercise classes here are already overcrowded. In Jan-March, she just gives up as you have to arrive an hour early and wait in line or you get turned away. Half our neighbors drive to some gym outside the Villages. We have been here 8 years and if we ever leave it will be for an indoor pool and gym we can use everyday for free.

[Russ_Boston]

NJ - good post about the $ value of the subject matter.

But even this makes my (and the recent post by L2rdhd) point. Since they are already making money on the issue then why change? You can do all the surveys you like but business is propelled by profit motive. If people start voting with their feet (i.e. don't pay for membership) then change will come. If an outside large facility opens up that is golf cart accessible (466 for example) then let's see how it goes. If people sign up for that instead of Colony then perhaps changes will take place.

Does anyone think that The Villages commercial dept. has turned down requests by outside vendors to build a full service gym that is golf cart accessible? Curious.

[pooh]

Golf isn't really a form of exercise?

Maybe not if you get in a cart and ride but a full length 18 hole walk is about 4.5 miles over the course of 4.5 hours. Granted it is done in 200 yard segments but it is still 4.5 miles.

More importantly we say things like "we should lobby for this". Where do you propose the money would come from for new more lavish (never mind free) gyms? Our amenity fee is based on the current setup. Lobby all you want it won't happen. There are not that many new centers left to be built and they are not going to retrofit the old ones never mind make them free.

Another point that I've made many times when talking about gyms is this: If it were such a needed thing that everyone uses (although I think Gracie is correct about most people not using them) then why doesn't an outside business venture step in and start creating them like crazy on 466 or 466A or 44? MVP is the only outside vendor to date and the jury is still out to see if they will be financial successful at current rates.

The reason that many other real estate developments offer free gyms is simple. They don't have what TV has! They need to offer something to entice buyers. Many of these developments are failing. TV is still closing 300 homes a month (give or take).

Glad you wrote this Russ. Golf is indeed a form of exercise. One has the option of making it more or less "intense" as their needs and abilities change.

Often, we tend to think that as we are, so are others. Granted, there are more younger adults moving to the community, but why would one feel that the developer HAS to put in more workout areas. Would one move to another community and demand the city fathers build a new gym? Realize people that you are moving to a new community, a pre-planned community with designs approved and permits issued. Personally, I wouldn't want our rec center retrofitted with workout equipment. The billiard room is used frequently, the two rooms for activities are used frequently. Taking one of those rooms away for exercise can change the plans and events scheduled by clubs and villagers.

Golf isn't exercise, my foot...walk and carry your clubs, that's exercise.

[kentucky blue]

Glad you wrote this Russ. Golf is indeed a form of exercise. One has the option of making it more or less "intense" as their needs and abilities change.



Golf isn't exercise, my foot...walk and carry your clubs, that's exercise.

Who exactly in TV walks the course and carries their clubs, i haven't seen anybody.You get more exercise taking your trash to the curb.Golf is a great game and a wonderful social gathering, but as a form of exercise in TV,i think not.We need more and better gym facilities within a golf cart drive.

[pooh]

Who exactly in TV walks the course and carries their clubs, i haven't seen anybody.You get more exercise taking your trash to the curb.Golf is a great game and a wonderful social gathering, but as a form of exercise in TV,i think not.We need more and better gym facilities within a golf cart drive.

Personally, I don't, but hubby does. I've seen lots of walkers over the years. Personally, it's not the way I want to exercise, but people do.

Speaking of taking out trash....yard work is wonderful exercise, though in the summer, it's more torture if you ask me... ;) We have a number of neighbors that tend to their own grass, trees, planting beds.

My point and I most likely didn't do a good job at getting it across, is that there are lots of ways to exercise in TV, it doesn't have to be done at a gym. Maybe some are just focused on work outs and forget there are other ways to work out. Heck, I'll assume they're moving here with their 9 to 5 work mentality...takes some time to rid mind and body of that.

[asilver]

I believe there is a 4th fitness center at the new Seabreeze Regional Rec Center

[NJblue]

NJ - good post about the $ value of the subject matter.

But even this makes my (and the recent post by L2rdhd) point. Since they are already making money on the issue then why change? You can do all the surveys you like but business is propelled by profit motive. If people start voting with their feet (i.e. don't pay for membership) then change will come. If an outside large facility opens up that is golf cart accessible (466 for example) then let's see how it goes. If people sign up for that instead of Colony then perhaps changes will take place.

Does anyone think that The Villages commercial dept. has turned down requests by outside vendors to build a full service gym that is golf cart accessible? Curious.

Russ, your view comes from the perspective of the status quo being the correct way to handle fitness centers (i.e., not being part of the amenity structure covered by amenity fees). I think what people are suggesting is that, like virtually every other 55+ community, the fitness centers should be provided at no additional cost.

Right now the lion share of our amenity fees go to golf. That's fine since TV has been marketed as a golf-centric community. However, by not including fitness centers as part of the "free" offering, I think TV is making a strategic mistake. You mention "voting with your feet"; I wonder how many prospective buyers who are not avid golfers looked at what they would be getting for their amenity fees and decided that the $135 plus fitness center fees was just a bit too much when they really had little use for all the golf courses. These people probably voted with their feet and bought elsewhere.

No big deal, right? After all, we're all golfers and it's no big loss to lose buyers who are not golfers. However, the cost of providing free fitness centers is minuscule compared with the golf courses. If we could attract more non-golfers by having free fitness centers, the net beneficiaries would be the golfer who now would have fewer competitors for tee times (because the population of TV would not be so dominated with golfers). They would also have fewer beginners/hackers to put up with who are just trying "to get their money's worth" from their amenity fees.

[Russ_Boston]

NJ - You're making my point again. Obviously people are not deciding to go elsewhere. Just look at the sales figures compared to any other real estate development in the country.

Would it be nice to have great free workout areas? Yes, but TV managment decided that it was not needed. And based on the profits they are getting from them (see $ post above), they might be right.

[2BNTV]

Unfortunately there is no "Y" nearby. I've never seen anyone walking the 18 hole courses here, and I used to do it all the time up north. They are not set up for walking - long distances between some holes, and there are pace of play issues.

We have no way of knowing how many people would use a gym/health club without doing a survey. We can all guess any number we want. But the thing is, if the gyms were here, there would obviously be more people using them. People don't have any uncrowded gyms to use now!

To advertise the Villages as an active retirement community, and not have the gyms to support the residents is a major gaff in my opinion. As to whether or not the facitlities should be provided - what percentage of Villagers do clogging? how about polo?, how about billiards? how about paddle tennis? We provide facilities for all of the above and many many more - there is a small niche of people who support each activity. If I recall there were no paddle tennis courts at all so no one was doing it until they installed the paddle tennis court up by Seabreeze.


Of course there are people who sit in the house and don't exercise for various reasons - infirmities or illness, lack of motovation or interest, etc., but for those who do need to exercise it would be great to have the facilities. We really have no idea how many people that would be without doing a good survey. Some people can't walk long periods of time or jog or play pickleball which by the way, is one of the most injury prone sports in the Villages, but they can exercise on a treadmill or elliptical. As someone else mentioned, if you are a babyboomer, you are part of a group that has fueled the rise of healthclubs since the 1980's. I've read various statistics that show the percentage of health club members that are aged 55 and older ranges from 20-30%. That is huge. When we don't offer the health club facilties in the Villages, my opinion is that we are really missing the boat. You try living here in the summer when the heat index is 110 degrees and walk an 18 hole golf course. Good luck - they'd be scraping you off the cart path. I ride 20 miles/day on my bike, and had to be on the bike before 7 a.m. or it was just not do-able because of the heat. An airconditioned facility where I could do aerobic activity would be bliss.

Taj44;

I couldn't agree with you more. I'm still a wannbe and I would like to see addition low cost facilities. It won't affect my wanting to move to TV but it would be nice.

Here is my 2 cents worth.

The need to exercise three tiimes a week in controlled environment is crucial for anyone who wants to be physically fit. Trying to exercise in excessive heat can be detrimental to one's health as I tried once when the heat on a running track was 110 degrees. I didn't get very far and had to stop with turned out to be a strained back, (surface too hard). I was much younger and not very wise.

I am not an expert and everyone has their views on what is needed to get fit. I exercise three times a week with weights and with a cross training machine.
1. The heart needs 20 minutes, (minimum), at 60% to 80% range of maximum allowed is order to get the benefit of a cardio-vascular workout. That 220 minus one age and times 60 or 80%.
2.If your on a treadmill and you having trouble talking to another person in terms of breathing, you are doing too much. I was much younger. :smiley:
3. Lifting weights to strenghtened the bones.
4. Studies have shown that exercise will help you to live longer!!!

IMHO - Why can't three times a week be the basis for staying healthy and add on additional exercise such as golf, swimming, pickleball, ets.... assuming one's health will permit.

When someone complains they didn;'t want to come to the gym, I tell them it' s "mind over matter". When they ask what I mean, I tell them, "if you don't mind, it don't matter". :laugh:

IMHO -I rather give my money for a gym than to give it to doctors. I would tend to think that a Planet Fitness or similar would help to make TV more perfect and help attract people who are into fitness and will require these low costs fitness centers.

Use it or lose it.

[Bogie Shooter]

Probably not enough people to support more "gyms". BTW by gyms, does that mean a baketball court or does it mean a fitness center?

[graciegirl]

NJ - You're making my point again. Obviously people are not deciding to go elsewhere. Just look at the sales figures compared to any other real estate development in the country.

Would it be nice to have great free workout areas? Yes, but TV managment decided that it was not needed. And based on the profits they are getting from them (see $ post above), they might be right.

Russ. I agree with you once again. :clap2:

[JUREK]

Taj44;

I couldn't agree with you more. I'm still a wannbe and I would like to see addition low cost facilities. It won't affect my wanting to move to TV but it would be nice.

Here is my 2 cents worth.

The need to exercise three tiimes a week in controlled environment is crucial for anyone who wants to be physically fit. Trying to exercise in excessive heat can be detrimental to one's health as I tried once when the heat on a running track was 110 degrees. I didn't get very far and had to stop with turned out to be a strained back, (surface too hard). I was much younger and not very wise.

I am not an expert and everyone has their views on what is needed to get fit. I exercise three times a week with weights and with a cross training machine.
1. The heart needs 20 minutes, (minimum), at 60% to 80% range of maximum allowed is order to get the benefit of a cardio-vascular workout. That 220 minus one age and times 60 or 80%.
2.If your on a treadmill and you having trouble talking to another person in terms of breathing, you are doing too much. I was much younger. :smiley:
3. Lifting weights to strenghtened the bones.
4. Studies have shown that exercise will help you to live longer!!!

IMHO - Why can't three times a week be the basis for staying healthy and add on additional exercise such as golf, swimming, pickleball, ets.... assuming one's health will permit.

When someone complains they didn;'t want to come to the gym, I tell them it' s "mind over matter". When they ask what I mean, I tell them, "if you don't mind, it don't matter". :laugh:

IMHO -I rather give my money for a gym than to give it to doctors. I would tend to think that a Planet Fitness or similar would help to make TV more perfect and help attract people who are into fitness and will require these low costs fitness centers.

Use it or lose it.

Excellent email. I also work out 2-3 times a week. Yes one has to do all the major muscle groups.

I really enjoyed the one email about taking the garbage out for your exercise.
Kind of like , hey the golf courses are all shut down lets all go Miniature golfing It's the same thing as golfing:1rotfl::1rotfl:

[graciegirl]

It isn't part of the plan and this place is 3/4 finished. You can talk about it until the cows come home. It isn't going to happen.

So if that would be a deal breaker for a person moving here, I guess someone else won't find it so.

This place will be finished out as planned and those who want an airport or a bunch of interior pools are just going to have to look somewhere else.

The medical issue and the lack of a great cancer center was nearly a deal breaker for me at first, but that is being solved as time goes on.

Our youngest daughter has a saying and those who know her know why.
It is " You can't have everything you want."

It's true too. Always.

[pooh]

I really enjoyed the one email about taking the garbage out for your exercise.
Kind of like , hey the golf courses are all shut down lets all go Miniature golfing It's the same thing as golfing:1rotfl::1rotfl:

In a way, you've sort of "dissed" anyone who golfs for exercise...whether they ride or walk. Hopefully you didn't mean that, did you?

[Pturner]

I suspect free gym memberships at at all the rec. centers would be wildly popular and would attract more people to want to live in TV. However, in reality, if things keep going as they are going, TV will completely build-out without this enhancement.

It could be that the developer seeks to maximize profits while building a fabulous retirement community.

If so, "free golf" (i.e., included in the amenities fees) perhaps meets that objective. It might act as a loss-leader, attracting avid golfers who take advantage of the free golf, but who also pay to play championship courses. They choose TV over other golf communities in part because of the large number of courses, some of which are free. Bottom line, golfers bring in a ton of extra revenue and profits.

Free gym memberships at the rec. centers might not fit that business model. Amenities fees could increase to cover costs, but that doesn't increase profits. So this subset of Villagers would not bring in additional profits as do golfers. On the other hand, TV collects revenues from Villagers who use the rec. centers and from the profits of any commercial gyms that locate in TV. Therefore, making gym facilities available for a fee and limiting in-house gyms to attract commercial ones may help maximize profits.

Of course, I'm just providing a possible explanation for why free golf is included and free gyms are not. Who knows. At any rate, it certainly would not hurt to request more gyms and/or no-fee gyms in our annual surveys, and to put together a compelling argument for it. It never hurts to ask. It also never hurts to be realistic and practical in what we ask for.

[2BNTV]

[QUOTE=Pturner;308494]

At any rate, it certainly would not hurt to request more gyms and/or no-fee gyms in our annual surveys, and to put together a compelling argument for it. It never hurts to ask.

PTurner:

My latest favorite saying is, "if you don't ask, the answer is automatically no".

[JUREK]

In a way, you've sort of "dissed" anyone who golfs for exercise...whether they ride or walk. Hopefully you didn't mean that, did you?

No . I'm saying that taking out the garbage is not exercise no more than miniature golf is the same as playing golf on a golf course..

I don't expect TV to supply me with a free gym membership. What I don't understand is why we can't have a 24 hour gym with a reasonable price. I also belong to a gym that is open 24 hours and it doesn't cost half of what they pay around here.

[pooh]

No . I'm saying that taking out the garbage is not exercise no more than miniature golf is the same as playing golf on a golf course..

I don't expect TV to supply me with a free gym membership. What I don't understand is why we can't have a 24 hour gym with a reasonable price. I also belong to a gym that is open 24 hours and it doesn't cost half of what they pay around here.

Ah, but the gym you belong to is probably part of a larger company or chain. Around here, there might not be enough income to cover the cost of building and operating a facility for many hours. Not sure that a 24 hour center is needed, but in order to help cover costs, the club might not be "private" so to speak.
Right now money is tight for many companies and they have cut back on new facilities. Maybe when the economy changes, more capital will be available and fitness companies might just take the leap and build in the area.

[kentucky blue]

Taj44;



I am not an expert and everyone has their views on what is needed to get fit. I exercise three times a week with weights and with a cross training machine.
1. The heart needs 20 minutes, (minimum), at 60% to 80% range of maximum allowed is order to get the benefit of a cardio-vascular workout. That 220 minus one age and times 60 or 80%.
2.If your on a treadmill and you having trouble talking to another person in terms of breathing, you are doing too much. I was much younger. :smiley:
3. Lifting weights to strenghtened the bones.
4. Studies have shown that exercise will help you to live longer!!!


Use it or lose it.
I'm glad exercise has all those extra benefits. I exercise 4 to 5 times a week for the romantic benefits.As you said ,use it or lose it, that's what you were referring to, right:jester::pepper2::jester:

[l2ridehd]

This thread is starting to sound like all the people who bought or built next to an airport and then complain about the plane noise. Everyone knew what TV was when they bought here. It is designed, built, advertised, set up, caters to, golfers. The costs are set up to support golf. The golf paths, golf carts, trails, courses are all designed as a golfing community. That is it's primary objective. If that is not what you want, go elsewhere. Yes they have music, and some rec centers, and some other sports, and some fitness centers, but again those are ancillary to the prime objective. A golf community is what they set out to build and that is what they achieved.

I also like to exercise and a gym would be great. But I also recognize that is not what TV is about. It's primary objective is a golfing community. They have achieved that in an outstanding way and exceeded all expectations. Accept it for what it is or make a different choice. Your not going to change it. Even if you could change it to the fitness capital of the world, without the golf, you could never afford to live here. All this infrastructure is built and supported with fees because of the golf. I do understand that not every one who moves here is a golfer. But you made a conscious choice to move to a golfing community. Accept the consequences of that choice.

[Bogie Shooter]

No . I'm saying that taking out the garbage is not exercise no more than miniature golf is the same as playing golf on a golf course..

I don't expect TV to supply me with a free gym membership. What I don't understand is why we can't have a 24 hour gym with a reasonable price. I also belong to a gym that is open 24 hours and it doesn't cost half of what they pay around here.

I assume your gym is "up north". Every thing is cheaper, better, more available, nicer, more variety, etc.
Maybe the demand is far greater up there and what they (who is they) pay here is realative to how many really use a gym.
BTW did you know the availability of gym's before you bought in TV?

[ajbrown]

Probably not enough people to support more "gyms". BTW by gyms, does that mean a baketball court or does it mean a fitness center?

I can only speak for myself, but to me I think there is an opportunity for some quality fitness centers in the area. I am not referring to a place that has a pool, raquet ball or basket ball, but a large gym where people can work out in any fashion they like. Lots of cardio equipment and resistance stations. To be fair, I have not yet checked out the new MVP fitness center since I have been back.

I am also not asking TV to build these, they have their plan and it is working well for them. IMO the rec center gyms are a bit small and bit expensive. To me this presents an opportunity. I am hopeful that some business person will see an opportunity and drop in a nice Gold's Gym (as an example) in the area. To me it is alot like the new driving range behind Wallmart, someone looked at this area, said I think I can offer a better product at a better price and went for it.

In fact, put in a nice Gold's gym next to the driving range and I can hit balls, then workout all in one place :pepper2:.

[Larry Wilson]

We need a gym with a wooden floor for basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, badminton and a decent place for exercise classes which is not a cement floor. A bunch of us ask for this every year and are told every year it is coming!! It is one of the reasons we can't have Senior Games here for these sports. People who use gyms and have been here for awhile know we need at least one good gym and more places to really exercise- which includes strength training and building all muscles. I leave the Villages at least 3 times a week to go to a gym. Yes, it makes you healthier!!!(and happier and younger like me!!)

[Mudder]

MVP is a great fitness center with tons of free classes and all sorts of machines to work out on. The price is totally reasonable and of course is golf cart assesible. You can watch all the action on the square while working out !

[Bogie Shooter]

MVP is a great fitness center with tons of free classes and all sorts of machines to work out on. The price is totally reasonable and of course is golf cart assesible. You can watch all the action on the square while working out !

Is there a waiting list for membership??

[Avista]

MVP is a great fitness center with tons of free classes and all sorts of machines to work out on. The price is totally reasonable and of course is golf cart assesible. You can watch all the action on the square while working out !
What is MVP? I go to Colony but haven't heard of MVP and can't for the life of me think of what the initials stand for.

[Larry Wilson]

It's the old Sales Center in Spanish Springs.

[Ajack]

This thread is starting to sound like all the people who bought or built next to an airport and then complain about the plane noise. Everyone knew what TV was when they bought here. It is designed, built, advertised, set up, caters to, golfers. The costs are set up to support golf. The golf paths, golf carts, trails, courses are all designed as a golfing community. That is it's primary objective. If that is not what you want, go elsewhere. Yes they have music, and some rec centers, and some other sports, and some fitness centers, but again those are ancillary to the prime objective. A golf community is what they set out to build and that is what they achieved.

I also like to exercise and a gym would be great. But I also recognize that is not what TV is about. It's primary objective is a golfing community. They have achieved that in an outstanding way and exceeded all expectations. Accept it for what it is or make a different choice. Your not going to change it. Even if you could change it to the fitness capital of the world, without the golf, you could never afford to live here. All this infrastructure is built and supported with fees because of the golf. I do understand that not every one who moves here is a golfer. But you made a conscious choice to move to a golfing community. Accept the consequences of that choice.

:agree: As my favorite football coach says, " It is what it is."

Really, do you think people relocate down here from up north for gyms? LOL

[ajbrown]

This all all we are looking for, a place where everyone can fit in....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_8idNs2uks

[golf2140]

This thread is starting to sound like all the people who bought or built next to an airport and then complain about the plane noise. Everyone knew what TV was when they bought here. It is designed, built, advertised, set up, caters to, golfers. The costs are set up to support golf. The golf paths, golf carts, trails, courses are all designed as a golfing community. That is it's primary objective. If that is not what you want, go elsewhere. Yes they have music, and some rec centers, and some other sports, and some fitness centers, but again those are ancillary to the prime objective. A golf community is what they set out to build and that is what they achieved.

I also like to exercise and a gym would be great. But I also recognize that is not what TV is about. It's primary objective is a golfing community. They have achieved that in an outstanding way and exceeded all expectations. Accept it for what it is or make a different choice. Your not going to change it. Even if you could change it to the fitness capital of the world, without the golf, you could never afford to live here. All this infrastructure is built and supported with fees because of the golf. I do understand that not every one who moves here is a golfer. But you made a conscious choice to move to a golfing community. Accept the consequences of that choice.

:agree: I thought that the older we get, the wiser we are. Please check deatails before yor purchase.

[Pturner]

This all all we are looking for, a place where everyone can fit in....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_8idNs2uks

:BigApplause::mademyday:

Now THAT'S awesome!

[gvsulakerfan]

there is a 24/7 fitness center opening up on US 301 in Wildwood/Oxford next month. It will be inbetween the Lucky U motorcycle shop and the tomberlin golf cart shop, across from Peppertree apartments.

There are great trainers at MVP, though :)

[Russ_Boston]

We need a gym with a wooden floor for basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, badminton and a decent place for exercise classes which is not a cement floor.

Now that I agree with. Not sure it will happen though.

[JUREK]

I assume your gym is "up north". Every thing is cheaper, better, more available, nicer, more variety, etc.
Maybe the demand is far greater up there and what they (who is they) pay here is realative to how many really use a gym.
BTW did you know the availability of gym's before you bought in TV?

Actually almost everything is more expensive for me in my area.
When they started building The Villages years ago golf was the preferred exercise for the senior citizens. Talk to any doctor and they will tell you that aerobic exercise and and weight training is by far the preferred way to go to keep fit and help your bones and to stay fit and youthful.
BTW when I bought I did check out the fitness or Wellness center and there was a pool. Not no more I understand.
BTW I'm not trying to close your golf courses.

[dominick]

If there is enough demand, maybe the owners of MVP or one of the large commercial gym chains could be interested in opening one of those huge megagyms, complete with plenty of parking, great equipment, ample showers and lockers, large exercise rooms, etc, etc. There is suitable property on 466A, I'm sure.
What we have presently is woefully inadequate for a community which will soon number 100,000 people.

[Russ_Boston]

If there is enough demand, maybe the owners of MVP or one of the large commercial gym chains could be interested in opening one of those huge megagyms, complete with plenty of parking, great equipment, ample showers and lockers, large exercise rooms, etc, etc. There is suitable property on 466A, I'm sure.
What we have presently is woefully inadequate for a community which will soon number 100,000 people.

Agreed. But the fact that it hasn't happened yet should tell you something about the market research that was done. I'm not saying it won't happen but if it doesn't it will be because, for the most part, gyms throughout the country fail on a massive scale. I'll bet the failure rate is over 75%.

But we'll see.

[Pturner]

Russ, you might be onto something. People want to go to the gym. But what percentage of those who believe they will go actually go?

[islandgal]

I can only speak for myself, but to me I think there is an opportunity for some quality fitness centers in the area. I am not referring to a place that has a pool, raquet ball or basket ball, but a large gym where people can work out in any fashion they like. Lots of cardio equipment and resistance stations. To be fair, I have not yet checked out the new MVP fitness center since I have been back.

I am also not asking TV to build these, they have their plan and it is working well for them. IMO the rec center gyms are a bit small and bit expensive. To me this presents an opportunity. I am hopeful that some business person will see an opportunity and drop in a nice Gold's Gym (as an example) in the area. To me it is alot like the new driving range behind Wallmart, someone looked at this area, said I think I can offer a better product at a better price and went for it.

In fact, put in a nice Gold's gym next to the driving range and I can hit balls, then workout all in one place :pepper2:.

Well, here's the chance for someone!:)
There are Gold's Gyms in Mt. Dora and Clermont.

http://www.goldsgym.com/golds/franchising/franchise-process/

[Talk Host]

The manager of a private gym told me yesterday that 70% of the members never show up, but keep paying every month.

[dhs9099]

WHen we were looking for a retirement community we first looked at Terra Vista (a Villages 'wanna be') about 40 or so miles to the West near Cyrstal River. They clearly understand the concept of a "rec center" - their gyms are awesome with hardcourt basketball, volleyball - really well done. When we came to the Villages we were very impresseed with the amount of outdoor related recreation facilities but disappointed in the lack of indoor true gym like amenities. At this point, with so many rec centers without a true gym, it would likely be hard for TV Management to invest in retro fitting all of the rec centers, but perhaps they would consider just doing so for the main regional centers at least and as they continue to build South, to include a gym in all of the regional centers. My two cents.

[JUREK]

The manager of a private gym told me yesterday that 70% of the members never show up, but keep paying every month.

That is probably an accurate number. Many people join 2-3 months before summer and expect to loose weight and look fit by summer. They show up for one or two sessions and they give up. I have been a gym rat my whole life. I have gone from racquetball, basketball to heavy weights and now lighter weights and stretching. I have also used the treadmill but I am NOT a runner. Just look around any neighborhood in the Villages and you will see people walking at all times of the day.
When I get real tired from weights I do play a round of golf. I must add NOT very well.

[gvsulakerfan]

If there is enough demand, maybe the owners of MVP or one of the large commercial gym chains could be interested in opening one of those huge megagyms, complete with plenty of parking, great equipment, ample showers and lockers, large exercise rooms, etc, etc. There is suitable property on 466A, I'm sure.
What we have presently is woefully inadequate for a community which will soon number 100,000 people.

You should expect that, once the houses start to be built on the south side of CR 466A, there will be much more commercial along that road.

Once the houses are there, then there is the justification for more commercial, including a large gym.

[jacobsgrampy]

I just started using the Wellness Center and I agree with your opinion. It's just not that easy to open up more gym space, however. Complaining isn't going to get you anywhere. Your real complaint is "I can't use the gym went I want too". Why don't you try another time or day. How about suggesting 24 hour gyms; or some of the gyms being Ladies only on Tuesday or Men only on Thursday. There has to be alternatives, finding them is the answer.

[Larry Wilson]

My friend's wife is the head of all the Rec centers. She pushes for more gyms and a real gym for basketball, volleyball, etc. and is always told it is coming. She is a friend of the Morse family and has worked for them all her life. They have told her for 8 years that they will build another wellness center with a wood floor floor for basketball,volleyball etc. In the original plans there were to be Wellness Centers all over but that died with Harold. The number # 1 complaint on the surveys, that are taken every year, is that there is not enough places for indoor exercise and no places for indoor sports.

[JUREK]

My friend's wife is the head of all the Rec centers. She pushes for more gyms and a real gym for basketball, volleyball, etc. and is always told it is coming. She is a friend of the Morse family and has worked for them all her life. They have told her for 8 years that they will build another wellness center with a wood floor floor for basketball,volleyball etc. In the original plans there were to be Wellness Centers all over but that died with Harold. The number # 1 complaint on the surveys, that are taken every year, is that there is not enough places for indoor exercise and no places for indoor sports.

This would be Fantastic news. Someplace to go to work off some of the good food we have in TV.:BigApplause:

[Raen Dear]

Along with the shortage of gym access, how easy is finding a personal trainer in TV? One with either access to a gym or with his/her own equipment. Also, if they exist, what is their hourly charge? Do they have real credentials or can anyone call themself a personal trainer? Come to that, what is the gym membership, which I seem to recall is not included in the monthly fee. My husband is a gym rat, I have to be forced to work out so I prefer to pay someone to make me.

[gvsulakerfan]

The personal trainers at MVP are NASM certified (National Academy of Sports Medicene) which is the gold standard as far as personal training certifications go.

Let me know if you'd like a recommendation for a trainer.

[Raen Dear]

Thank you, gvsulakerfan. I'll be in touch as soon as I move to TV, which if all goes well will be early 2012, which is really not that far away, and assuming the world doesn't end in 2012.

[homeball]

What percentage of the total population use the gyms on a regular basis?

What is your guess? I guess less than ten percent.

Of the 16 nearby neighbor homes of people we know well, none use the gyms.

Our next door neighbor runs and does triathlons. Others are exercising in many other ways.

Your next door neighbor actually works the desk at the Seabreeze Gym. I run into him a lot when I work out there. He occasionally works out at the gym like all the other rec center employees.

[Taj44]

Interesting to note the number of views (5928) and replies (137) this thread has had. It appears there is more interest in gyms than some people realized. I've heard as well that it is a big complaint on the surveys that are done each year, that there are not enough places for indoor exercise and no places for indoor sports like basketball and volleyball.

[florlrl]

the gyms are getting very crowded. The Wellness Center is out because its so far away. We need another one on Sumter side. The Rec centers gyms are getting so crowded you stand around waiting for machines. The cost is high for these gyms. Just as expensive as NY so why do we have to stand around and wait for machines. Come on residents. We need to complain!! Let the Villages know what we want!!! more gyms are at the top of my list!!

Every year I include on my Villages survey the need for a better large gym, such as a 24 Hour, Lifetime Fitness or Golds Gym in this area. The Wellness Center was purchased by MVP who promised updated equipment and all sorts of changes that have yet materialized. In fact, their Zumba classes have been reduced recently although it was an extremely popular class. Their weight lifting machines are ancient and I'm unimpressed by the rec center gyms as well. People from the West Coast are used to fitness as a way of life and updated, plentiful equipment is a must. I know there is an Anytime Fitness and 24/7 Fitness in the outlying areas, but I'd like to see a huge, complete fitness center with indoor pool and group exercise classes come to The Villages.

[Russ_Boston]

but I'd like to see a huge, complete fitness center with indoor pool and group exercise classes come to The Villages.


Like I've said many times on this thread, if you think it would work then why not get an investor group toghther to build it and make some money?

I'll tell you why that won't happen - Gyms are not money makers!!!

We all think they are great things but somehow it is just not a good business proposition.

[zcaveman]

Interesting to note the number of views (5928) and replies (137) this thread has had. It appears there is more interest in gyms than some people realized. I've heard as well that it is a big complaint on the surveys that are done each year, that there are not enough places for indoor exercise and no places for indoor sports like basketball and volleyball.

Please do not confuse the number of views with interest in gyms (or anything else on TOTV). Many of us are just curious and want to read the comments about the different topics and see how the thread is progressing.

I was happy with the gym in the Mulberry center. I was able to do my post-operation exercises that the doctor suggested. The machines that they had satisfied my needs and requirements.