From Busy Americans flocking to circuit gyms:
It’s no surprise that circuit workouts — cheap, low-key and easy to understand — are popping up in strip malls coast to coast. About a third of the country’s estimated 30,000 health clubs are now express workout facilities, according to IHRSA. While Curves found an audience among middle-aged and older women, the spinoffs are branching out to other groups.Cuts Fitness for Men, which opened in 2003, now has 90 locations across the country. With a tan-and-blue color scheme and “Cheers”-like camaraderie, founder John Gennaro said members are typically between 30 and 60 and often watch a baseball game together after their workouts.
The Blitz, a boxing-themed circuit gym, has 75 locations nationwide. This fall, president
Scott Smith is planning a foray into the 18 to 35 market with a coed, military-themed version called “Commandos.”Even major chains like 24 Hour Fitness and Gold’s Gym have rolled out circuit workouts.
One circuit gym in southern California invites the entire family to work out. At Family Fitness Express in LaCanada, Calif., members are encouraged to bring along the kids, or even grandma and grandpa.