Why no nice Health Club in The Villages??

[fiddlehead]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

[graciegirl]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future … however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great … by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) …. any talk of a modern health club … as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness …. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

We could go on and on and someone would have a need that wasn't a majority thing.

I would like tables or places for easels at the art centers that would hold my BIG canvases but I know that it isn't a huge demand.

I feel bad for the swimmers, especially our dear friend Swimdawg.

It gets pricy-er when we expand our want list, unless a pool would be something like a workout room where one must pay a fee.

I personally would love for every villager to have every dream come true and every athletic want and every desire for theatre venues and every single thing that any resident would like to have, here for them.

But I am sayin' this. We do awfully danged well for approximately $140 a month.
__________________

[Bogie Shooter]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

There are trade-offs, you may want to consider another retirement community. Rather than hate being in TV.

[rubicon]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

I am a member of MVP and while it doesn't have all of the amenities you cite it does fit my needs. More amenities mean higher prices, My goal is staying healthy and any of the other amenities you cite I don't need. Hopefully you will find a health club in the area that will cater to your special needs

[angiefox10]

The Life Time Fitness idea is a GREAT one. It could be built on the South side, maybe even around Brownwood. It wouldn't have anything to do with The Villages as it's a separate entity and the people who want to join could . It would provide for an indoor pool as well as an indoor track! I know in this area the LifeTime Fitness is open 24/7 and the parking lot is ALWAYS full! I have never seen anything like it! The Villages fees wouldn't go up and everyone would have everything they wanted.

http://lifetimefitness.com/

I personally have never belonged to one, but the people who do LOVE it!

This has nothing to do with not loving TV. If there is a way to bring more to TV for the people who want it... Why not? This isn't a love it or leave it thing. Let's make it better for everyone.

[Happinow]

I haven't really toured any of the community centers. Are there exercise machines in any of them?

[angiefox10]

I haven't really toured any of the community centers. Are there exercise machines in any of them?

Yes, there are and they are very nice. AND... There are lots of clubs you can join for any type of workout you want. There are lots of trails to run/walk and sports to play. TV really does have it all.

But for those who want to pay an extra fee to be able to swim indoors, walk inside, be able to walk up to a machine and get on, this could be an option.

[Bogie Shooter]

The Life Time Fitness idea is a GREAT one. It could be built on the South side, maybe even around Brownwood. It wouldn't have anything to do with The Villages as it's a separate entity and the people who want to join could . It would provide for an indoor pool as well as an indoor track! I know in this area the LifeTime Fitness is open 24/7 and the parking lot is ALWAYS full! I have never seen anything like it! The Villages fees wouldn't go up and everyone would have everything they wanted.

http://lifetimefitness.com/

I personally have never belonged to one, but the people who do LOVE it!

This has nothing to do with not loving TV. If there is a way to bring more to TV for the people who want it... Why not? This isn't a love it or leave it thing. Let's make it better for everyone.

That would be a business decision on the part of Lifetimefitness. Those who want it here should start a letter/email campaign telling them why they should build here.

[angiefox10]

That would be a business decision on the part of Lifetimefitness. Those who want it here should start a letter/email campaign telling them why they should build here.


Exactly!!!!!

[Mickedamouse24]

You are kidding right????? Have you ever visited TV..?? If a suitable health center, as you state, is what is preventing you from living here, might behove you to look else where!! I doubt you would be happy living in our bubble minus that ymca type club!!!:ohdear: Some people apparently just don't have a clue!!!!

[Happinow]

Sweet on the exercise machines!! I love to walk and jog!

[2BNTV]

The Life Time Fitness idea is a GREAT one. It could be built on the South side, maybe even around Brownwood. It wouldn't have anything to do with The Villages as it's a separate entity and the people who want to join could . It would provide for an indoor pool as well as an indoor track! I know in this area the LifeTime Fitness is open 24/7 and the parking lot is ALWAYS full! I have never seen anything like it! The Villages fees wouldn't go up and everyone would have everything they wanted.

http://lifetimefitness.com/

I personally have never belonged to one, but the people who do LOVE it!

This has nothing to do with not loving TV. If there is a way to bring more to TV for the people who want it... Why not? This isn't a love it or leave it thing. Let's make it better for everyone.

:agree: It's always on the wish list for some people. This would be a win-win scenario.

TV ain't perfect but pretty dang close. :)

[fiddlehead]

The point is, the health facilities that are currently in The Villages are NOT free!! the fees are in addition to the $140/month Village fee, so having a nice modern health club should not cost The Village any thing .... most decent towns have an indoor pool, and most health clubs will have a sauna, steam room and hot tub ... you can't tell me that 100,000 people can not support a private health club .... heck most LA Fitness's have those things for $29/month ... less than what The Village's fitness centers are!!

[Whalen]

I haven't really toured any of the community centers. Are there exercise machines in any of them?

Yes, there are and they are very nice. AND... There are lots of clubs you can join for any type of workout you want. There are lots of trails to run/walk and sports to play. TV really does have it all.

But for those who want to pay an extra fee to be able to swim indoors, walk inside, be able to walk up to a machine and get on, this could be an option.

Just to clarify, there are 4 regional rec centers with gym equipment, treadmills and the like. You must become a member to use the equipment. Ther are daily, weekly, monthly and annual memberships available. Fees range from $5.00 per day to about $400.00 per year. Not sure about weekly and monthly rates.

[RichieLion]

If you have the financial means coupled with a marketing plan and are able to combine them into a viable prospectus to make a high class exercise spa a reality in The Villages, I'm sure the Morse Development Team would discuss it's creation with you.

There is plenty of land set aside for new commercial interests I think.

Good Luck, and I hope you're successful.

[jblum315]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

Did you check out the Wellness Center in Spanish Springs? I think it has everything you are looking for. But maybe not.

[FMF Doc]

The Life Time Fitness idea is a GREAT one. It could be built on the South side, maybe even around Brownwood. It wouldn't have anything to do with The Villages as it's a separate entity and the people who want to join could . It would provide for an indoor pool as well as an indoor track! I know in this area the LifeTime Fitness is open 24/7 and the parking lot is ALWAYS full! I have never seen anything like it! The Villages fees wouldn't go up and everyone would have everything they wanted.

http://lifetimefitness.com/

I personally have never belonged to one, but the people who do LOVE it!

This has nothing to do with not loving TV. If there is a way to bring more to TV for the people who want it... Why not? This isn't a love it or leave it thing. Let's make it better for everyone.

Maybe if they build a new Costco it could have an indoor pool, sauna and steam room.

I understand a certain farewell party in a certain Chicago suburb had to be moved to the Mayor's house so he could attend.

:laugh::laugh::laugh:

[mrsanborn]

The State of Florida provides the ultimate sauna from late June through early September and it's free! Throw in some rain and you get steam. Need a hot tub? The neighborhood pools are 85. Have a need to run? Try running around your neighborhood.

[Midge538]

If you have the financial means coupled with a marketing plan and are able to combine them into a viable prospectus to make a high class exercise spa a reality in The Villages, I'm sure the Morse Development Team would discuss it's creation with you.
Good Luck, and I hope you're successful.

This doesn't make 'any' sense! "You can't sell steak in a hamburg town."

[RichieLion]

This doesn't make 'any' sense! "You can't sell steak in a hamburg town."

I couched my post with caveats that the proposal would need to be viable.

I don't disagree with your assessment, but why take it out on me?

If the OP is correct in how attractive such a facility would be, what's wrong with entertaining it's feasible creation.

[cquick]

The Life Time Fitness idea is a GREAT one. It could be built on the South side, maybe even around Brownwood. It wouldn't have anything to do with The Villages as it's a separate entity and the people who want to join could . It would provide for an indoor pool as well as an indoor track! I know in this area the LifeTime Fitness is open 24/7 and the parking lot is ALWAYS full! I have never seen anything like it! The Villages fees wouldn't go up and everyone would have everything they wanted.

http://lifetimefitness.com/


:agree:
I personally have never belonged to one, but the people who do LOVE it!

This has nothing to do with not loving TV. If there is a way to bring more to TV for the people who want it... Why not? This isn't a love it or leave it thing. Let's make it better for everyone.

I agree with Angie.....there is shopping and medical and other entities here at The Villages that are not owned by TV. They seem to do very well.

On another post, I also said that an indoor pool for therapy would go very well in The Villages. People would pay an extra fee to use the pool, just as they do to join the other fitness centers here.

[angiefox10]

I've never been in a LifeTime Fitness but I would love to see what the hoopla is about! I think it might be kinda like TV that you have to see it to believe it and that being said... I will refrain from making any derogatory comments about it until I've see it.

I can tell you that when I googled it, I found it costs $60 a month to belong.

What I know is, the fitness center is ope 24/7. They have parking lots larger then Walmart and you are lucky to get a spot! The place is hopping 24 hours a day!

But like they say about The Villages... It's all smoke and mirrors. :laugh:

[Golf-Tinker]

TV had an indoor pool at Spanish Springs in I Believe 2008. It closed because of insufficient financial support. I do not believe the community will support such a facility paid for by an increase in amenity fees. Proposals have been made to erect canvas covers at various pools for shade from the sun. For various reasons, these proposals were not enacted.

I'm sorry if you cannot accept what we have and pay for as acceptable. It's not bad when you investigate and consider all the alternatives.

[jack_pine]

I think some of the reactions here are a little strong. We are deep into vetting the villages and it looks like this is what we will land on.

I will say that we were a little surprised when we first found out there were no indoor facilities for water aerobics and tracks and the like. I get that they are "specialized" and should not be supported by general fees by everyone.

i do think that a facility could be supported by a community this large. My wife belongs to Health bridge here and the place is packed in all seasons.

Just say'in. Supporting an idea like this is not an attack on TV.

[graciegirl]

I think some of the reactions here are a little strong. We are deep into vetting the villages and it looks like this is what we will land on.

I will say that we were a little surprised when we first found out there were no indoor facilities for water aerobics and tracks and the like. I get that they are "specialized" and should not be supported by general fees by everyone.

i do think that a facility could be supported by a community this large. My wife belongs to Health bridge here and the place is packed in all seasons.

Just say'in. Supporting an idea like this is not an attack on TV.

No it isn't Jack. It just is that some folks think that it should be part of what The Villages itself offer under the amenity fee. I very much support an independent fitness corporation locating near here or renting space from The Villages. My thought is that it has been researched, the indoor pool thing, and that it would not be lucrative. When a place is swimable outdoors almost all of the year, it isn't as good of an idea as having one in an area where you really can only swim comfortably for three months of the year. Follow the money. It has not only to self support but make money for the owners.

Plus, we ARE a 55 PLUS community. Henry and I have a close friend from Ohio and he runs five miles every day of the year, plays two nine hole rounds of golf and he is 75. Now that is exemplary but not common. Walking and running are quite available outdoors almost every day of the year comfortably, but swimming is less comfortable or not doable in cooler weather.

I think that the health club facilties with machines are used by all ages but mostly the younger of us.


So it isn't that we are attacking. I'm not at least. Just trying to look at this problem with a more realistic view.

PLUS....just wait until you get here and see how active we are with bicycling, walking, running, roller blading, exercise classes in almost all of the rec centers, walking clubs, not to mention pickleball, tennis, paddleball and dogs walking people. You WON'T believe your eyes. Plus for the older of us, five rounds of golf a week and all that arm swinging is quite a bit of moving around.

[kentucky blue]

If you have the financial means coupled with a marketing plan and are able to combine them into a viable prospectus to make a high class exercise spa a reality in The Villages, I'm sure the Morse Development Team would discuss it's creation with you.

There is plenty of land set aside for new commercial interests I think.

Good Luck, and I hope you're successful.

I know i'll p*ss alot of people off, it won't be the first time,but if you walk through Spanish Springs and LSL,fitness is not a priority in TV.If you think golf is real exercise,guess again.I can't believe the number of people that have all the lifestyle opportunities TV provides and don't take advantage of it.There are soooooooooooooo many fitness classes and groups that focus on health and wellness in TV.Finally, did you all come to TV to live or die,than put down the fork and get your fat ass in gear,and swinging a golf club while using your "cool" golf cart, just doesn't cut it, get out there and really EXERCISE.:icon_hungry:

[jane032657]

We are bringing our professional style eliptical and putting in an above ground swimspa with propulsion combined with separate hot tub. Year round facility in our own backyard. And cost no one else a penny....

[Pturner]

A good strategy for people who would like a gym with indoor pool, saunas and hot tubs in or near TV would be to contact LA Fitness, Lifetime Fitness and/or other know companies that build such facilities to let them know of your interest and encourage them to locate here.

Ask like-minded TOTVers to do the same. Provide them with demographic information that would bolster your case. If a company believes it could be profitable, they might well investigate.

It could be that some of the companies have not jumped on this market because:


the average age doesn't conform to their typical demographic
TV has more than 40 heated outdoor pools that are usable almost year-round
Water aerobics and other swimming classes are available in TV free of charge
Many Villagers have covered, heated pools and hot tubs at their homes


That doesn't mean that a profitable venture isn't possible. If people who are interested can convince a proprietor to look past these possible limitations and can highlight reasons they think it could work, perhaps a proprietor might be willing to investigate.

It never hurts to ask.

BTW, personally, I don't think I would use such indoor facilities very often, if at all. I love the great outdoors, and the atmosphere at the community pools.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Advantageous locations abound for such non-TV owned facilities - along 27/441, the 466 corridor (Wedgewood out by Beall's), and 466A.

Bill :)

[graciegirl]

...

[Barefoot]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

I think your concerns are valid. I think you are suggesting a Private Health Club and NOT one funded by our Villages Amenities. I join you in hoping that a Fitness Chain will see The Villages as a viable opportunity. I would have no problem buying a membership that included use of an indoor pool, sauna and hot tub.

[kentucky blue]

people who live here are from 50 to 100. not everybody you see at the squares live here. not everybody likes to exercise. it is there choice.

That's why the USA is the most obese country in the world, i'm not counting a couple of small islands,and it effects all of us in the pocketbook.Sorry ,but using the excuse that it's their choice to be fat , miserable,and bankrupting our health care system doesn't cut it.TV offers everyone of us the opportunity to be the best we can be,and gives us all the facilities and personnel to make that happen.................Just Do It.

[graciegirl]

That's why the USA is the most obese country in the world, i'm not counting a couple of small islands,and it effects all of us in the pocketbook.Sorry ,but using the excuse that it's their choice to be fat , miserable,and bankrupting our health care system doesn't cut it.TV offers everyone of us the opportunity to be the best we can be,and gives us all the facilities and personnel to make that happen.................Just Do It.

you don't sound like the people I know who were born in Kentucky. You sound like you are from someplace else. You could say the same thing nicer. and you will get older too.

[ilovetv]

you don't sound like the people I know who were born in Kentucky. You sound like you are from someplace else. You could say the same thing nicer. and you will get older too.

You got that one right!

[kentucky blue]

you don't sound like the people I know who were born in Kentucky. You sound like you are from someplace else. You could say the same thing nicer. and you will get older too.

Your right Dutchgirl,went to the University of Kentucky to play basketball and fell in love with the people and the state.I truly believe Lexington is as good as it gets,but i still bought a home in TV,what does that tell you about TV???

[Hancle704]

Speak to the people at USF who are looking at the long term health needs of TV community and let your views be heard. Expanded and additional exercise facilities of the type now contained in some of the Regional Rec Centers was discussed at a focus group I participated in. The general consensus was a few dollars added to amenities fees would provide for expansion of these facilities with no daily charge for residents.

[golf4me]

Speak to the people at USF who are looking at the long term health needs of TV community and let your views be heard. Expanded and additional exercise facilities of the type now contained in some of the Regional Rec Centers was discussed at a focus group I participated in. The general consensus was a few dollars added to amenities fees would provide for expansion of these facilities with no daily charge for residents.

Leave the amenity fees alone! That's all we need a bunch of special interest groups trying to raise the amenity fees.

[graciegirl]

I agree. I am a fiscal conservative. Even with amenity fees.

[CarGuys]

Why I moved here .

I can Walk Play Golf, Swim , and Ride my Bike most of the year,

I'm sorry after Syracuse NY weather I have had it with being stuck inside stuffy germ filled Heath Clubs waiting months for the winter ,weather to clear.,

See Gracie I'm getting better- Were almost there!

And besides we just came out of closing, NO MONEY LEFT! " Laughing "

Herv

[mjdollard]

Does anyone know if there is there an indoor pool at the High School? If so, do they have open swim?

[graciegirl]

Does anyone know if there is there an indoor pool at the High School? If so, do they have open swim?

They do not have an indoor pool at the High School.

[manaboutown]

The point is, the health facilities that are currently in The Villages are NOT free!! the fees are in addition to the $140/month Village fee, so having a nice modern health club should not cost The Village any thing .... most decent towns have an indoor pool, and most health clubs will have a sauna, steam room and hot tub ... you can't tell me that 100,000 people can not support a private health club .... heck most LA Fitness's have those things for $29/month ... less than what The Village's fitness centers are!!

I had looked forward to using the fitness facilities at the rec centers I had read about in promotional literature during my month's stay in The Villages last year. First of all, I was quite surprised to have to pay signiificant sums to use those at the rec centers which were small, overcrowded, offerered minimal weights, only a couple of benches, and a few machines. In size and amenities they reminded me of what one finds in a hotel or perhaps on a cruise ship. When I needed to use a rest room I had to walk all sweaty through the lobby area of the rec center, passing by nicely dressed people attending other activities. That felt strange and inappropriate. Worse, if I wanted to shower afterward or use a locker I would have had to go over to the other side of the rec center and use the shower adjacent the pool. I just changed my shirt and drove to the house I rented to shower. Thankfully I had a rental car so I did not sweat up my own car.

I pay $15/mo. to work out in Southern California at 24 Hour Fitness Centers all of which provide plenty of free weights, benches, aerobic equipment and exercise machines, a sauna and adjoining locker rooms having adequately sized lockers and showers. Some have indoor pools, steam rooms and more. Obviously, they need to operate at a profit to stay in business.

Fitness centers are inexpensive to build, equip and maintain compared to golf courses. It seems to me it would be advantageous to the developer to update and upscale TV's fitness centers - but if and only if TV's target market would sufficiently desire them.

From my observations during my visit and from following TOTV most villagers reside there for two primary reasons. The first is to escape harsh winter weather and the second is for the free/inexpensive golf - not necessarily in that order. In those regards TV offers a lot of bang for the buck. I was quite impressed by its affordability, cleanliness, and overall ambiance. Perhaps spacious and well equipped, nice but not posh fitness centers availble for use at reasonable cost are simply not sufficiently desired by most residents. I do not know. I do know they are for me and I hope some get built in TV by someone, somehow. Decent fitness centers would certainly help make The Villages Florida's healthiest home town!

[homeball]

I had looked forward to using the fitness facilities at the rec centers I had read about in promotional literature during my month's stay in The Villages last year. First of all, I was quite surprised to have to pay signiificant sums to use those at the rec centers which were small, overcrowded, offerered minimal weights, only a couple of benches, and a few machines. In size and amenities they reminded me of what one finds in a hotel or perhaps on a cruise ship. When I needed to use a rest room I had to walk all sweaty through the lobby area of the rec center, passing by nicely dressed people attending other activities. That felt strange and inappropriate. Worse, if I wanted to shower afterward or use a locker I would have had to go over to the other side of the rec center and use the shower adjacent the pool. I just changed my shirt and drove to the house I rented to shower. Thankfully I had a rental car so I did not sweat up my own car . . . . . . .

That is an excellent analysis of the gym situation here. Before I moved here in 2009, I was a member of Jack LaLanne/Bally Total Fitness in NY since 1976. My dues at the time I moved were $150/yr for which I got all the things that are missing here. You can imagine the culture shock when I found out that I had to pay $366/yr for the conditions described in the above post. But in short I learned how to cope with things simply by going to the gym at other than peak times and utilizing the advice in the phrase "when in Rome . . . . ".

I still had my membership in Bally's up until last year but the closest one is in the Northern Orlando area about a hour and a half round trip drive, a little to much travel for an hour workout. When my membership expired last year, Bally's sent me an offer to renew my membership for $125/yr. I wouldn't mind their opening a local facility either in or close to TV.

[Bogie Shooter]

That is an excellent analysis of the gym situation here. Before I moved here in 2009, I was a member of Jack LaLanne/Bally Total Fitness in NY since 1976. My dues at the time I moved were $150/yr for which I got all the things that are missing here. You can imagine the culture shock when I found out that I had to pay $366/yr for the conditions described in the above post. But in short I learned how to cope with things simply by going to the gym at other than peak times and utilizing the advice in the phrase "when in Rome . . . . ".

I still had my membership in Bally's up until last year but the closest one is in the Northern Orlando area about a hour and a half round trip drive, a little to much travel for an hour workout. When my membership expired last year, Bally's sent me an offer to renew my membership for $125/yr. I wouldn't mind their opening a local facility either in or close to TV.

Have you contacted them??

[homeball]

Have you contacted them??

Not formally. Bally Total Fitness was concentrated in Metro areas anyway.

BTW, after I posted this AM, I checked the Bally web site and have now learned that in November 2011 they sold a lot of their locations to LA Fitness. Florida is one of the states that LA Fitness bought all the Bally locations. So as they say, life moves on.

[homeball]

I just looked at LA Fitness web site for their rates. Their latest offer is "no initiation fee and $9.95/week dues". That works out to approx $500/year.
Not such a good deal when compared to Bally's rates.

I guess I may hang out here awhile. At least the gym is only 5 minutes from my house. :icon_wink:

Anyway, who knows what's in the future. TV may decide to divest itself of all it's regional gyms and MVP may open a second mega gym down here . . . . etc, etc, etc.

[rjm1cc]

It is one of the considerations you have to make in selecting a community. There are options outside of TV that may work. My main objection is that I am not a golfer but I do use gyms. Seems that if the small golf courses are included in the fees the gyms should also be included.

[batman911]

Given the number of business failures I have seen in the gym/fitness arena, I believe their profit margins are fairly small. The extra cost the the developer imposes on businesses in TV may make this market unprofitable for most private gym/fitness businesses. I hope I am wrong on this assumption as the lack of a quality gym is one of my major concerns in TV.

[homeball]

Given the number of business failures I have seen in the gym/fitness arena, I believe their profit margins are fairly small. The extra cost the the developer imposes on businesses in TV may make this market unprofitable for most private gym/fitness businesses. I hope I am wrong on this assumption as the lack of a quality gym is one of my major concerns in TV.

That tends to be true for most small businesses here in TV. That's one of the reasons we're witnessing the exit of small/Mom&Pop businesses and the arrival of larger corporate businesses which can absorb the extra cost.

[jane032657]

We have someone in the family whose job it is to locate new areas for LA Fitness. We have not moved to TV yet but have bought a place. No one knows yet though among our family and friends. Once we announce, I will get in touch with that person and see what their thoughts are. Last time I saw him, a few years ago, they were opening places everywhere it seemed to me!

[2BNTV]

We have someone in the family whose job it is to locate new areas for LA Fitness. We have not moved to TV yet but have bought a place. No one knows yet though among our family and friends. Once we announce, I will get in touch with that person and see what their thoughts are. Last time I saw him, a few years ago, they were opening places everywhere it seemed to me!

Thanks for posting this. It will be refreshing to be in the know about something coming to TV as opposed to hearing about it after it's a done deal.

Having options is always good. :)

[fiddlehead]

When I visited The Villages last year ... I met with a person from MVP and he told me that MVP was in negotiations to build a state of the art fitness center(like the one they have in Orlando) in the new town of Brownwood .... I have heard nothing else about this??? Anyone??

[fiddlehead]

We have someone in the family whose job it is to locate new areas for LA Fitness. We have not moved to TV yet but have bought a place. No one knows yet though among our family and friends. Once we announce, I will get in touch with that person and see what their thoughts are. Last time I saw him, a few years ago, they were opening places everywhere it seemed to me!
That is great! I feel that having one of the nice LA Fitness's, that I have seen, close by would be the swinger for me moving to TV ... I love it there. I also feel that it would be profitable to LA Fitness! ... We have about 30 LA Fitness's in Atlanta ... I think The Villages could support one(1)!!

[mulligan]

The problem I see is if it's cart accessible ( villages property) the developer has his hands in the till. Makes it necessary to raise prices to cover the bigger nut. I'm used to workout world at $10/month. I don't believe that would happen inside the bubble.

[angiefox10]

So... What are the fees to use the gym in TV?

[mulligan]

$5.00 per day at the fitness center @ colony.

[angiefox10]

Thank you.

Weekly and monthly rates?

[homeball]

So... What are the fees to use the gym in TV?

There are various rates to suit everyone's needs, i.e., daily ($5), weekly ($19), monthly ($45), 3 month ($120), 6 months ($210), 9 months ($295), and annual ($366). Obviously, for a full time resident annual membership is the best deal since you only have to go six times a month to break even with the daily rate.

[pauld315]

I am sure if this could be investigated by the major chains and they determine that it wold be profitable to locate there, they will. I think it would be tough based on most likely having to lease space outside of TV for affordability.

[buggyone]

Mulligan says the developer has his hands in the till of Villages properties.

The Developer's company is the landlord for the leased properties. It is standard business practice for a business landlord to take in a certain percent of receipts.

I was talking to the owner of City Fire restaurant and he said the Developer is the 2nd best landlord he has had in 40+ years of business and lots of different landlords. That sounds like a pretty good recommendation to me.

[RichieLion]

Mulligan says the developer has his hands in the till of Villages properties.

The Developer's company is the landlord for the leased properties. It is standard business practice for a business landlord to take in a certain percent of receipts.

I was talking to the owner of City Fire restaurant and he said the Developer is the 2nd best landlord he has had in 40+ years of business and lots of different landlords. That sounds like a pretty good recommendation to me.

Absolutely correct buggy; it's much like the "mall fees" that the stores pay the developer of shopping malls because of it's prime business location

[The Villager II]

Absolutely correct buggy; it's much like the "mall fees" that the stores pay the developer of shopping malls because of it's prime business location

Ditto:::: I would ask for locations that folks came from that find any fault in The Villages. This place is Paradise for pennies.

[tommy steam]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

I have joined Planet fittness in ny , it cost 10 bucks a month and a yearly fee of $ 39 .. dont know if one is near TV . They are super clean have all kinds of equip. and clean showers and locker rooms. You can check out their web site and see if one is close to TV;)

[Yorio]

I was told that there are no one like physical trainer to guide you at TV fitness centers. Should't there be one to guide and recommend machines depending on your condition? Any other sports they are willing to teach you at all Rec centers. Aren't there volunteers for fitness?

[jblum315]

There are physical trainers at the Wellness Center.

[Yorio]

Is the Wellness Center part of the hospital or if not where that might be?

[2BNTV]

I have joined Planet fittness in ny , it cost 10 bucks a month and a yearly fee of $ 39 .. dont know if one is near TV . They are super clean have all kinds of equip. and clean showers and locker rooms. You can check out their web site and see if one is close to TV;)

I believe the nearest one is 30 minutes away. I belong to Planet Fitness in CT,
I pay $10 per month that is more reasonable than the rec center fee of $350/$400 per year. I probably would burn the difference in fee's in gas getting back and forth to the nearest Planet Fitness several times a week. Having shower facilities are preferred as I don't like to thought of working out and waiting to get home. Some people want to shower in their own home. To each his/her own.

The club owner I belong to, before PF, claimed his biggest expense was the water for the pool, whirlpool, steam, sauna bath and the repairs needed. It's not a deal breaker for me but it would be nice if a mojor chain came to TV at a resonable price so we all have another option of staying healthier.

[CharTalk]

MVP in Spanish Springs has exercise equipment, loads of group exercise classes (yoga, kick, ride, aerobics, etc), personal trainers that will do small group training as well, locker rooms with sauna, massage therapists, etc. No pool. (There are pools everywhere in The Villages and you can pretty much swim year round.) Cost is around $45/month. Really like it.

[cquick]

There are physical trainers at the Wellness Center.

Can anyone go to the Wellness Center? Or do you have to have a doctor's order?

[cquick]

I believe the nearest one is 30 minutes away. I belong to Planet Fitness in CT,
I pay $10 per month that is more reasonable than the rec center fee of $350/$400 per year. I probably would burn the difference in fee's in gas getting back and forth to the nearest Planet Fitness several times a week. Having shower facilities are preferred as I don't like to thought of working out and waiting to get home. Some people want to shower in their own home. To each his/her own.

The club owner I belong to, before PF, claimed his biggest expense was the water for the pool, whirlpool, steam, sauna bath and the repairs needed. It's not a deal breaker for me but it would be nice if a mojor chain came to TV at a resonable price so we all have another option of staying healthier.

It could be on 466A and allow membership open to anyone, not just Village residents

[cquick]

Ditto:::: I would ask for locations that folks came from that find any fault in The Villages. This place is Paradise for pennies.

:agree: but there's always room for improvement. The Villages is a great place to live, and there's going to be even more things to do after Brownwood town square is finished

[cquick]

We took our son Patrick to a physical therapy evaluation at the Lakeside Rehabilitation Center at Spanish Springs today.

There is a big, beautiful indoor pool there, but it cannot be used. Nobody really owns it and it used to be a part of another rehabilitation center.

It's such a shame.....the therapist said their company looked into taking it over, but there wasn't enough interest in it, and not enough residents would use it to pay for the maintenance. Even with a monthly fee or whatever. I find that so hard to understand....Celebration Hospital's pool at their health club is in use all the time and there are classes scheduled all day long, and it's always busy during open swim times.

Perhaps it's because it's connected to the hospital and the doctors recommend their patients use it...perhaps because it's a part of the health club.

I don't know the details, but with the aging population at TV, and with skin cancer so common, and bodies with arthritis could use a nice warm pool in an indoor situation.

Just curious......and it's too bad that it isn't being utilized.

Connie

[jblum315]

Could it be that it's more difficult to keep an indoor heated pool healthy for its users?

[graciegirl]

We took our son Patrick to a physical therapy evaluation at the Lakeside Rehabilitation Center at Spanish Springs today.

There is a big, beautiful indoor pool there, but it cannot be used. Nobody really owns it and it used to be a part of another rehabilitation center.

It's such a shame.....the therapist said their company looked into taking it over, but there wasn't enough interest in it, and not enough residents would use it to pay for the maintenance. Even with a monthly fee or whatever. I find that so hard to understand....Celebration Hospital's pool at their health club is in use all the time and there are classes scheduled all day long, and it's always busy during open swim times.

Perhaps it's because it's connected to the hospital and the doctors recommend their patients use it...perhaps because it's a part of the health club.

I don't know the details, but with the aging population at TV, and with skin cancer so common, and bodies with arthritis could use a nice warm pool in an indoor situation.

Just curious......and it's too bad that it isn't being utilized.

Connie

I was thinking about this and It has to be a money making situation. If you had say..several million dollars to build an indoor pool, would you invest in it when most of the year people can use outdoor pools for free? I don't think I would invest my money to build such a place when maybe a total of seven weeks a year people would be interested in paying to use it. Yes. Skin cancer is an issue but it doesn't keep people from being outdoors and I don't think it would be a catalyst to have enough people pay to swim indoors. Enough to recoup a large investment and to make money. Which is the purpose of any facilty being built. Follow the potential for profit.

Would you invest YOUR money to build it??? This is not aimed at you Connie but anyone..who says they think it is a good idea. I wouldn't want to keep up a facility for eleven months a year with a smattering of patrons.

[BnCinME]

We are bringing our professional style eliptical and putting in an above ground swimspa with propulsion combined with separate hot tub. Year round facility in our own backyard. And cost no one else a penny....

Where are putting the elliptical? We have one that I would love to bring down when we become frogs but it's huge.

[SunCity]

I was thinking about this and It has to be a money making situation. If you had say..several million dollars to build an indoor pool, would you invest in it when most of the year people can use outdoor pools for free? I don't think I would invest my money to build such a place when maybe a total of seven weeks a year people would be interested in paying to use it. Yes. Skin cancer is an issue but it doesn't keep people from being outdoors and I don't think it would be a catalyst to have enough people pay to swim indoors. Enough to recoup a large investment and to make money. Which is the purpose of any facilty being built. Follow the potential for profit.

Would you invest YOUR money to build it??? This is not aimed at you Connie but anyone..who says they think it is a good idea. I wouldn't want to keep up a facility for eleven months a year with a smattering of patrons.

then why do we have so many indoor pools here in the sun cities? we have both indoor pools and outdoor pools here. for every outdoor pool, we have an indoor pool. they are BOTH used a lot. the pools are at our rec centers. we don't have neighborhood pools like you do there. and our weather is every bit as nice as your weather. i hear your going thru a cold spell now....another one. we haven't had that cold weather like you have in a long time. our indoor pools are very busy all year round. residents here do care about skin cancer. our pools here also have hot tubs/whirlpools next to the pool. and we have diving areas for those swimmers who would like to dive. do any of your pools have diving areas!? i i think if someone would build an indoor pool for your residents, it would thrive - just like our many indoor pools do here in the sun cities in arizona

[Barefoot]

I was thinking about this and It has to be a money making situation. If you had say..several million dollars to build an indoor pool, would you invest in it when most of the year people can use outdoor pools for free? I don't think I would invest my money to build such a place when maybe a total of seven weeks a year people would be interested in paying to use it. Yes. Skin cancer is an issue but it doesn't keep people from being outdoors and I don't think it would be a catalyst to have enough people pay to swim indoors. Enough to recoup a large investment and to make money. Which is the purpose of any facilty being built. Follow the potential for profit.

Would you invest YOUR money to build it??? This is not aimed at you Connie but anyone..who says they think it is a good idea. I wouldn't want to keep up a facility for eleven months a year with a smattering of patrons.

Gracie, you are missing the point!

THERE IS AN INDOOR POOL ALREADY BUILT AND AVAILABLE!!! It is in the Moffit Building and hasn't been used in four years. But chemicals are added weekly! I see the big beautiful indoor pool sitting empty when I go for Physio at Lake Rehab in Spanish Plains.

We will all be getting Wellness Surveys shortly to complete. This would an ideal time to comment that this EXISTING pool should be used, and memberships sold!

[graciegirl]

then why do we have so many indoor pools here in the sun cities? we have both indoor pools and outdoor pools here. for every outdoor pool, we have an indoor pool. they are BOTH used a lot. the pools are at our rec centers. we don't have neighborhood pools like you do there. and our weather is every bit as nice as your weather. i hear your going thru a cold spell now....another one. we haven't had that cold weather like you have in a long time. our indoor pools are very busy all year round. residents here do care about skin cancer. our pools here also have hot tubs/whirlpools next to the pool. and we have diving areas for those swimmers who would like to dive. do any of your pools have diving areas!? i i think if someone would build an indoor pool for your residents, it would thrive - just like our many indoor pools do here in the sun cities in arizona

With this being the fastest growing small town in the U.S. then an investor would/could/should be jumping on an opportunity to make money. I think that the people who swim a lot are interested (we have a lot of waders and loungers) but there probably aren't as many real swimmers as say Golfers or pickleball players. There is a reason why someone isn't building a facility with an indoor pool. I don't see anyone in our new village leaving the village to swim. (We don't have a pool in this village) There are six houses with pools out of 57. No one is riding by with their towels and noodles that I have seen.

I am not saying it wouldn't be nice or wonderful to have an indoor pool. I have a dear friend who can't swim when it is cold and she swims everyday. I am saying that if it would be profitable it would happen.

I hope it does.BUT. In this economy investors are investing in a sure return.

[graciegirl]

Gracie, you are missing the point!

THERE IS AN INDOOR POOL ALREADY BUILT AND AVAILABLE!!! It is in the Moffit Building and hasn't been used in four years. But chemicals are added weekly! I see the big beautiful indoor pool sitting empty when I go for Physio at Lake Rehab in Spanish Plains.

We will all be getting Wellness Surveys shortly to complete. This would an ideal time to comment that this EXISTING pool should be used, and memberships sold!

I don't know why it isn't used Bare. You say it is filled and maintained?

[NotGolfer]

The indoor pool at Lake Rehab "is" used and not just sitting there. There are classes done there but it's my understanding you have to have a referral to use this feature. I had asked about coming and don't remember the details now...but think they said there is a weekly cost if you'd want to use it personally, to water-walk or swim. You should call them with ANY questions at 352-753-6999.

[golf2140]

The Villages is great and at the top of my short list for the near future � however after talking with some new residents, I find that the health club options are not great � by this I mean that the present facilities are over crowded, No indoor pools, no decent locker rooms, no wet areas(to include hot tub, sauna, steam) �. any talk of a modern health club � as good as a YMCA or LA Fitness, LifeTime Fitness �. ???? I would hate to retire at the largest, healthiest, retirement community in the country without a decent health club??

Oh well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Barefoot]

The indoor pool at Lake Rehab "is" used and not just sitting there. There are classes done there but it's my understanding you have to have a referral to use this feature. I had asked about coming and don't remember the details now...but think they said there is a weekly cost if you'd want to use it personally, to water-walk or swim. You should call them with ANY questions at 352-753-6999.

NotGolfer, that is incorrect! I assume you haven't used the facilities at Lake Rehab at Spanish Plains?

I take Physio at Lake Rehab three times a week in the small pool, 91 degrees. Maximum five people, the pool is very small.

The small pool is located next to the HUGE pool that is not used! The large pool has water in it, and I've seen the chemical guy put chemicals in it regularly to maintain it. I believe the pool was used by the Health Club that moved over to Spanish Springs. According to the fitness instructors, the pool hasn't been used for four years.

[Bogie Shooter]

then why do we have so many indoor pools here in the sun cities? we have both indoor pools and outdoor pools here. for every outdoor pool, we have an indoor pool. they are BOTH used a lot. the pools are at our rec centers. we don't have neighborhood pools like you do there. and our weather is every bit as nice as your weather. i hear your going thru a cold spell now....another one. we haven't had that cold weather like you have in a long time. our indoor pools are very busy all year round. residents here do care about skin cancer. our pools here also have hot tubs/whirlpools next to the pool. and we have diving areas for those swimmers who would like to dive. do any of your pools have diving areas!? i i think if someone would build an indoor pool for your residents, it would thrive - just like our many indoor pools do here in the sun cities in arizona

Because Sun City is in Arizona and The Villages is in Florida.
Have you ever been to The Villages???

[SunCity]

Because Sun City is in Arizona and The Villages is in Florida.
Have you ever been to The Villages???

well, as a matter of fact, i have been to the villages. i think it is a wonderful beautiful place. i think the villages has it all over the sun cities with that one huge exception - no indoor pools. i see it is a bit on the cool side there today. where do your swimmers swim when it's cold? our pools open early in the morning and they are filled. i bet if someone would build an indoor pool in your area, it would be well used.

because we have so much sun out here in arizona, people are really educated on skin cancers, etc.
more and more people are opting to stay away from the sun and use our indoor pools - even on nice days.

[Army Guy]

MVP in Spanish Springs has exercise equipment, loads of group exercise classes (yoga, kick, ride, aerobics, etc), personal trainers that will do small group training as well, locker rooms with sauna, massage therapists, etc. No pool. (There are pools everywhere in The Villages and you can pretty much swim year round.) Cost is around $45/month. Really like it.

Agree, MVP is great and very cheaply priced. PLUS all classes are free. The only problem is it does get tight when snowbirds are all here. But April is coming!
Army Guy

[cappyjon431]

Agree, MVP is great and very cheaply priced. PLUS all classes are free. The only problem is it does get tight when snowbirds are all here. But April is coming!
Army Guy

I toured MVP yesterday and was very impressed. The facility was very clean, spacious, they had first rate (and relatively new) equipment, and dozens of free group classes offered every day. Towels, lockers and sauna are included in your dues. Personal trainers, massage, private classes, etc. are available for an additional fee. It didn't look too crowded, but the sales associate did say it does get pretty crowded in the early mornings.

They are running a February special, the enrollment fee is 50% off (for TV residents, that means the enrollment fee is $50 for the primary member, and $37.50 for the associate member). Monthly fees are $59/mo. for the primary member and $43/mo. for the associate member. While I found this to be a little steep, I also found that because my wife is employed at the hospital, we get a corporate rate--$35/mo. for her, $30/mo. for me with no enrollment fee. Can't beat that--we'll be signing up next week!

[Bogie Shooter]

well, as a matter of fact, i have been to the villages. i think it is a wonderful beautiful place. i think the villages has it all over the sun cities with that one huge exception - no indoor pools. i see it is a bit on the cool side there today. where do your swimmers swim when it's cold? our pools open early in the morning and they are filled. i bet if someone would build an indoor pool in your area, it would be well used.

because we have so much sun out here in arizona, people are really educated on skin cancers, etc.
more and more people are opting to stay away from the sun and use our indoor pools - even on nice days.

I am glad you enjoy your indoor pools.
What does it cost to swim in your indoor pools??

[barb1191]

There is also an olympic-size indoor pool for the residents at Freedom Point independent living facility. When we took the tour of this facility a few months ago, the pool was maintained, but nobody was using it.

Was so very disappointed when the indoor pool within the Wellness Ctr when it was next to the Sharon Morse bldg was no longer accessible to the residents when the Welllness Ctr moved to SS square Sales Office. It was shocking that such a decision to move and close the indoor pool to residents as the place was always active with members and the structure was not only beautiful, but so convenient to the activities. One could use the pool and in the same area enjoy a massage and/or the rooms for private classes and the gym area very active.

Hubby and I both are on blood thinners which restricts one from the sun so the indoor pool worked so well for us.

Go figure.