Pure Fitness is bulking up.
The Red Deer gym is relocating from its 4940 54th Ave. premises to space nearly three times as big at 5230 53rd Ave. It will open at the new site on Monday.
Jason MacDonald, who is the operating partner of Pure Fitness with his wife Kelly, said the increased size will have a big impact on the business. The gym has gained locker rooms and office space, and now has a workout area that will accommodate two groups at once.
“We can have a beginner class going at the same time as an advanced class,” said Jason.
There will also be space designated for one-on-one training, he added.
As a CrossFit affiliate, Pure Fitness teaches a strength and conditioning program that improves muscle strength, endurance and flexibility.
The MacDonalds opened the gym in north Red Deer nearly six years ago, while Jason was competing in mixed martial arts for the UFC. Pure Fitness moved into bigger space at 4940 54th Ave. in August 2010, but that’s proven insufficient for its needs.
“Business has been great over the past five years, but we were literally splitting at the seams at the other location.”
Jason previously offered mixed martial arts training at Pure Fitness, but discontinued those classes after retiring from the UFC so that he could focus on CrossFit.
Pure Fitness owns its new building, which was previously occupied by Glory Lighting. The space has been gutted and redeveloped with an eye to future growth.
“It’s a big upgrade for us, it’s a big improvement,” said Jason.
Pure Fitness has a staff of 15.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com