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    Short North Fitness Opens in The Jackson on High

    The Short North continues to expand on the northern end of the district with the opening of the new Short North Fitness. This new business opened their doors yesterday in The Jackson on High condominium development located at 1137 North High Street. Short North Fitness boasts a variety of classes, services and state-of-the-art fitness equipment. We recently spoke with manager Todd Schulze to find out more about the new business.

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    Q: Tell us a bit about your personal background as it relates to the fitness industry.

    A: My background is pretty diverse. After college, I thought my path would be physical therapy or working in a post rehabilitation, but after my internship with Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton I realized I could make a much bigger impact in the world of general fitness. During the first couple years of my career I worked in bigger gyms, personal training studios and corporate wellness facilities… but the ultimate goal was always to branch out on my own. I opened my first training studio in 2004 and never looked back. Each opportunity seemed to lead to another. In 2005, I was fortunate enough to be given the reigns on the project of building a fitness center for The Country Club at Muirfield Village. I’m grateful to Micheal Graney, the GM, and the entire membership for giving me that opportunity. I started Columbus Fitclique, my philanthropic organization, in early 2010. We have some great things in the works for 2011. And now, with Short North Fitness, I couldn’t be more excited about the future.

    Q: Having previously worked on The Country Club at Murifield Village, how do you think a transition to the Short North will be different in terms of customer expectations in a more urban environment?

    A: I don’t think expectations should be any different. Fitness is a service business and no matter what demographic you serve that should never change. People want to feel a sense of belonging. Obviously, in a private club setting like Muirfield that is always to be expected, but the same high standards will be in place at Short North Fitness. I’ve been in too many gyms that shuffle people through. They lack a personal connection to their membership. Fitness is a very personal thing. If you’re intimidated or don’t feel comfortable, then there is little chance you will achieve your fitness goals. The standard usage rate of the average gym in the US is less than 50%. What good is that doing anyone? At Short North Fitness you will receive a top level experience every time you walk in the door.

    Q: What unique aspects of the new business do you think will help Short North Fitness stand out from other nearby gyms and fitness centers?

    A: Our staff. Lets face it, every gym has state of the art equipment. What sets any business apart is the people that work to make that business what it is. If you take a look at the bios of our management, trainers, and instructors you’ll start to see that these people are truly special. Fitness is a passion for them. Each one has built an amazing career and has their own unique style. My vision for this facility has always been to create an all-star team of some of the best the city has to offer. There is no doubt we have done that. To add to that, we will be a limited membership facility, will carry a full line of Lululemon Athletica products, and will be open 5am-midnight most days.

    Q: Tell us a bit more about the relationship between Short North Fitness and The Jackson on High condo development and its residents.

    A: This building speaks for itself. Brad Howe and his team have been amazing in allowing me to create my vision and giving the support needed to get to a finished product. It’s been great to work with a young and talented team. Brad is one of the hardest workers I know and he will continue to do great things for this community. As far as the residents, they have been an amazing support. We showcased the gym in September by providing free rooftop classes. The residents were out there and loved it. The Jackson has been gracious enough to provide a free one year membership to anyone that buys in the building.

    Q: Are there any other special grand opening discounts or promotions?

    A: I’ve never been a big fan of countless promotional deals. I would rather someone join because they think we provide an amazing product. I’ve always been turned off by the standard sales pitch that is typically associated with a “gym membership”. We do have a corporate membership of $25 per month if you have five or more people. Also, for the next two weeks you can try us out for free.

    Q: Anything else you think folks on CU should know about?

    A: We are open now, but will be fully functioning with classes and all services on November 1st. Also, you will have the ability to take some classes without a membership. It gives our clients ultimate flexibility and an opportunity to experience Short North Fitness how you choose. We can’t wait to share the Short North Fitness experience with everyone.

    More information can be found online at www.shortnorthfitness.com.

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    Walker Evans
    Walker Evanshttps://columbusunderground.com
    Walker Evans is the co-founder of Columbus Underground, along with his wife and business partner Anne Evans. Walker has turned local media into a full time career over the past decade and serves on multiple boards and committees throughout the community.
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