Build it and they will come.
While this philosophy may have worked well in the Field of Dreams, it appears few people showed up to check out the expansion and renovations to Rimbey’s fitness centre, although fitness stations were set up and activities planned.
Thirty people showed up for the open house and fundraiser Aug. 24.
“It was disappointing to see the poor turnout,” said Jan Lucas, who stopped by to check out the fitness centre and the activity stations. “It was amazing and it would have been a blast for kids to try.”
During the open house, held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. trained instructors were on hand to demonstrate how to use fitness equipment and play indoor games.
Tammy Frietag, a personal trainer from the fitness centre, said the event needs to be better advertised to attract more people. She said organizers are hoping next year the event will be bigger and better.
However, although the numbers were few, those who did show up had a great time, she said.
“The obstacle course was the most popular and it was fun. Actually it was brutal.”
The town has invested $20,000 in the fitness centre in the community centre.
During the last few months the centre has been expanded, security improved, the walls painted and new equipment added. Mirrors have been replaced, a spinner bike added, treadmills replaced and a storage rack built. A new television has been installed and the area painted.
Usage of the centre and memberships have increased since the expansion, said Peter Stenstrom, director of community services. “I think the town made a very good investment.”
Frietag said the changes have been positive.
“They have added better cardio equipment that actually works. Overall the buzz around town has been very positive. It has been great as nothing had been done to improve the fitness centre for a long time.”
Frietag said plans are underway to hold the fundraising annually.
“We are looking at other ideas such as businesses challenging other businesses,” she said.