Club Hits Ground Running

Newcastle Herald

Saturday February 23, 2008

JOHN Pirlo wants to help people forget all about their preconceived ideas about gyms.

In fact he wants to do away with the word "gym" altogether.

Mr Pirlo is the manager of a new health club that has opened for business in Maitland.

Genesis fills expansive premises in High Street and has the latest in fitness equipment.

Based on the Genesis success story already setting new benchmarks in the industry in three states, Genesis Maitland caters for all age groups.

And with 15 personal trainers, there is no shortage of guidance and assistance.

"This really is the club for everybody," Mr Pirlo said.

"I've had 12 years' experience running health clubs and I've put what I know into what we have here in Maitland.

"Before we even opened our doors we had something like 700 members registered, so that proves this is something the region has been waiting for."

Mr Pirlo said that from the childcare area at the front of the club through to the weights section, the Pilates area, the massage room and the steam room with its associated "cool monsoon shower", there was something for everyone at Genesis Maitland.

"The shower sprays from the top and the sides and helps flush away acids generated by exercise.

"The club has been designed so that there's room to move and people never need feel uncomfortable.

"The trainers are there to offer advice and also to ensure that people are using the equipment the right way; the best way to benefit them."

With surveys showing around 86 per cent of people do almost nothing when it comes to improving personal fitness, Mr Pirlo said Genesis aimed at helping escape sedentary lifestyles and associated issues.

"And what we offer is the opportunity to enjoy a mix of the social and the physical.

"That's something people really respond to."