New Crunch Fitness gym opens in Gravenhurst

Crunch Fitness Gravenhurst

Members of Crunch Fitness Gravenhurst celebrate the gym's success so far. From left: Kenzie Nelson, Megan Sammut, Carrie Chou and Lauren Wallbank. - Sarah Law/Metroland

For Carrie Chou, people shouldn't have to choose between being healthy and being smart with their money.

Located in the former IGA Building at 190 Sharpe Street E. in Gravenhurst, Crunch Fitness is the town's newest gym. It officially opened its doors on June 11, but plans have been underway since the beginning of 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"As soon as demolition began, we got locked down. It was not the smoothest journey for us or anyone in the fitness industry," said Chou, the owner of the Gravenhurst location, via email.

When she was researching different franchises within the health and wellness industry, Chou said Crunch Fitness stood out to her because of its mission "to fuse entertainment with fitness and to support everyone on their fitness journey in whatever way we can."

Crunch Fitness member service representative Lauren Wallbank uses the bench press at the new facility in Gravenhurst. Aug. 11, 2022.

Crunch Fitness member service representative Lauren Wallbank uses the Hack Squat machine at the new facility in Gravenhurst. (Sarah Law/Metroland photo)

"I instantly fell in love with the culture, people and their mission," she said.

Chou said Crunch Fitness Gravenhurst is the largest mid-range gym in Muskoka, and the location in central Gravenhurst makes it convenient and accessible.

"Anyone who either lives/goes up north, knows how limited full-service health clubs are. There was an opportunity to solve a problem and this building had been empty for years," she said. "With over 15,000 square feet, it was the perfect size for a gym."

The facility offers group fitness classes, tanning and personal training. Crunch Fitness also recently introduced a physiotherapy program, which will soon be available at the Gravenhurst location.

Personal trainer and fitness consultant Megan Sammut puts some miles on the treadmill at Crunch Fitness in Gravenhurst. Aug. 11, 2022.

Personal trainer and fitness consultant Megan Sammut puts some miles on the treadmill at Crunch Fitness in Gravenhurst. (Sarah Law/Metroland photo)

All memberships include use of the gym equipment, which includes cardio equipment, assisted machines, squat racks/smith machines, benches, a turf area for high-intensity workouts and multi-functional trainers, she said. Equipment brands include Life Fitness, Precor, Hammer Strength, HOIST and Atlantis.

The location currently has five staff members and is looking for more personal trainers.

"Not only is fitness important for the physical body, it contributes to our mental and emotional well-being as well," said Chou.

"What we offer is the ability to tailor to a wide variety of people at an affordable price," she continued. "Coming out of a pandemic and into a recession, we offer the best rate in the region with the largest facility in Muskoka."

The team at Crunch Fitness Gravenhurst show off their strength at the new gym. From left: Kenzie Nelson, Carrie Chou, Megan Sammut and Lauren Wallbank. Aug. 11, 2022.

The team at Crunch Fitness Gravenhurst shows off their strength at the new gym. From left: Kenzie Nelson, Carrie Chou, Megan Sammut and Lauren Wallbank. (Sarah Law/Metroland photo)

Chou also wanted to extend her gratitude to the community for its support so far.

"We are overwhelmed by the support from the Gravenhurst community. It has been a long and hard journey getting our club open, but we have had an incredible (turnout). Without our members thus far, we wouldn't be here," said Chou.

While some people may be hesitant to get back to the gym after COVID-19, Chou said the building has a brand-new HVAC system and staff clean the facility constantly to keep clients safe and comfortable.

Crunch Fitness is planning a grand opening on Aug. 27 with special promotions, contests/prizes, local guests and giveaways.

"Thank you for being part of the journey and now we share a journey together. Let us get you to your goals like you've gotten us to ours," said Chou.

Crunch Fitness is located at 190 Sharpe St. E. in Gravenhurst. Aug. 11, 2022.

Crunch Fitness is located at 190 Sharpe St. E. in Gravenhurst. (Sarah Law/Metroland photo)

News