Long-empty sports complex to open in December

Straub’s Fitness to open new business on Rt. 17M in Goshen, By Geri Corey Goshen — The road to success started in a dairy barn, but not by milking cows. What began as a hobby for Joe Straub III while he was in college ended as a full-time career for the owner of Straub’s Fitness. Twenty-six years ago, when Straub was a competitive distance runner and needed time off from running, he joined a gym. Then the idea came to him that, by buying weight sets and benches, he and his family could work out in his barn on Black Meadow Road in Chester. Friends started joining them on a regular basis, and eventually the venture grew to include dues-paying members. Straub had his workout center in the barn for 11 years before moving to his present location in Chester. He owns a second facility in the Monroe Shopping Plaza on Route 17M. “People to this day are members from our barn days,” says Straub. Straub’s Fitness is about to open its third francshise in the Goshen Sports Complex, which is set to open in early December. Straub and his partner, Trish Keough, say they are looking forward to having more space in the new facility. “There are lots of areas for people to find a spot they like,” he said. There will be two cardio fitness areas, two strength-training areas, and two classrooms: one for aerobics/yoga and one for spinning. An exciting addition is the “movie theater,” a darkened room where patrons will be able to watch a big screen TV with surround sound while working out on cardio equipment. “This design not only keeps your attention, but eliminates any feeling of being self-conscious while exercising,” said Straub. The all-inclusive health club membership (please see sidebar) includes use of the equipment and weights, classes, childcare, tanning, training, and full locker and shower facilities. Classes will be offered in yoga, aerobics, body shaping, pilates and kickboxing. Straub said he and his staff are approachable, and will be out on the floor ready to help and to answer questions. Socializing is a big part of coming to a health club, which can meet that need for “selfish me time.” But, Straub said, “The side effect is good health.” Straub has a passion for fitness. “Working out builds strong muscles,” he said. “That builds a beautiful body with good posture and provides high energy.” He said women shouldn’t be afraid of lifting weights; they promote overall good health. Straub is a 1987 graduate of Pace University and still lives in Chester. Other offerings at the complex Additional sports, managed by other sports businesses who will charge their own membership fees, will be offered at the Goshen Sports Complex. They will include tennis, lacrosse, and flag football. A pool will open in the spring. The owner of the complex, Darshan Chilana, said amenities will include a café, pro-shop and arcade. Essential information Straub’s Fitness is offering a pre-opening special: $19.95 to enroll and $19.95 per month. Pay $239 for the year, and the enrollment fee is waived. Enroll with a friend, and add a 13th month to the full-year payment. For more information, visit www.straubsfitness.com or call 469-2043.