The old Painted Turtle building on Grand Avenue in Mancos is getting a new lease on life, as a new gym and yoga studio hybrid prepares to open next month.
The new venture, The Grand Gym and River Yoga Studio, is the brainchild of Mancos resident and longtime massage therapist Katherine Dobson.
Dobson and her husband moved from Durango to Mancos five years ago, and said it was the best decision they've ever made. The only thing they missed, however, was a place to work out.
"After years of going without I realized I had to invent a space," said Dobson.
In November, Dobson purchased the old Painted Turtle storefront, and since then, the building has been under construction to get it ready for fitness use.
"Mostly the back needed the most work - the front was already nicely done since the Painted Turtle used to be in there," she said. "It's basically built out warehouse space, so it really had no heat or flooring."
Construction is expected to wrap up later this month, and Dobson and her staff are eager to open up to the community.
The gym's focus will be "functional fitness," Dobson said. The training focuses on using body weight and resistance to enhance strength, balance and improve range of motion.
"It focuses on movements we use every day in real life," said Dobson.
Fitness classes as well as private sessions will be lead by Mancos resident and personal trainer Rachel Hahn.
The Grand Gym will also have "open gym" sessions in which those with their own workout agendas can have a space to exercise.
The back portion of the building is the River Yoga Studio, which will also offer massage therapy.
"We created a small beautiful yoga studio looking out on the Mancos River," Dobson said.
Yoga classes will be lead by Lisa Holz and Lily Russo, two certified instructors and Mancos residents. Massage therapy conducted by therapist and Mancos resident Emily Capelin will also be available for those seeking relaxation in the form of a deep tissue or Thai massage, Dobson said.
The Grand Gym will have a Grand Opening Party featuring free classes on Feb. 7.
For more information call (814) 314-3368.
