Snap Fitness will open first gym in Whitewater

By: Kim Burdick

Posted: 10/17/07

The Topper's Headquarters building will see the addition of a 24-hour fitness center sometime in November.

"We are hesitant to declare an opening date at this point because the space is still under construction and problems can always come up toward the end," franchise owner, Melanie Barker, said.

Snap Fitness' goal is to provide another place in town that is easily accessible for any student or resident's workout needs and does not require a long-term commitment. Memberships can be purchased monthly, whereas many workout centers require yearly contracts.

"The whole principle of our business is convenience," Barker said.

The first 150 people to sign up with Snap Fitness will receive free enrollment. As of this time, student discounts have not been discussed, Barker said.

The fitness center will include full-circuit training machines, a free weight area and a cardio theater.

Barker currently owns two other Snap Fitness franchises, but was attracted to the Whitewater area because of the building's location and proximity to her hometown of Fort Atkinson.

"One of the things that attracted us to that location is it's very safe, centrally located, and in a residential area," Barker said.

Barker runs the Snap Fitness centers with her brother, Mason, who currently attends UW-Whitewater.