24/7 Fitness Center Closing Down In Oakland [Maine]

“Nitro Fitness in Oakland [Maine] attracted more than 400 members at its peak thanks in large part to its 24/7 accessibility. But come January, Nitro Fitness will have no access. The establishment is closing, a victim apparently of a tough economy and a highly competitive industry. ‘It was a sudden change,’ owner Paul Bernier said of the downturn in memberships. ‘We were actually doing really well a year ago. So it went really fast.’ Bernier opened the Oakland fitness center with two partners in January 2005. He and his partners subsequently expanded, adding outlets in Lewiston and Bangor. They recently sold the Lewiston center, however, and moved the Bangor operation to Brewer. Bernier said a tougher economy and competition from Planet Fitness, which opened a gym in Waterville in April 2007, are the two factors that had the biggest impact on his business. Sidney resident Peter Beckerman, a member for two years, isn't surprised by Nitro's demise. Beckerman said people who are struggling to afford high food and energy prices ‘are certainly not going to keep membership up in a health center.’ Kara Thompson, a spokeswoman for the Boston-based International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association, said talk of declines in the fitness industry should be viewed skeptically. The reality, she said, is revenue increased nationwide in the industry from 2006 to 2007 despite a 3 percent decline in membership. ‘The economy affects all industries,’ Thompson said, ‘but if you look at the history of our membership the fitness industry has been relatively recession- free.’ Moulton and Beckerman lend credence to this phenomenon. Both intend to continue working out elsewhere. For Moulton, a diabetic who has suffered eight heart attacks, membership in a fitness facility has been a lifesaver. ‘I really believe the gym is what got me back on my feet,’ he said.”

http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/5673457.html