Planet Fitness expanding to Big Rapids

BIG RAPIDS, MI - Planet Fitness is expanding to Big Rapids.

The fitness chain is moving into the remaining 16,000 square feet of a former Kmart building, at 1250 Perry Ave.

Planet Fitness plans to open in May next to Family Farm and Home, according to Colliers International | West Michigan, which matched company with the location.

A big draw of the location is its proximity to Ferris State University, said Chris Klebba, owner of Planet Fitness franchise in Big Rapids.

"We're excited to open a location in Big Rapids because we believe there's a need for more fitness options in the area," said Klebba in a statement.

Klebba was represented by Harry Cohn of Cohn Commercial Properties in the transaction.

The low cost fitness center offers cardio machines, strength equipment, a 30-minute express circuit, fitness trainers, massage chairs and tanning. Memberships start at $10 a month.

The chain's business model works despite collecting a smaller fee because the facilities are designed to accommodate more people who tend not to spend a lot of time in the gym. Operational costs are lower because Planet Fitness locations don't have pools, exercise classes, childcare or juice bars.

The founders of the chain started with this basic premise, aiming to answer why 80 percent of the population has not joined a health club.

The chain began moving into the Michigan market several years, and now has 65 locations, according to the company's website.

"Planet Fitness will help meet the growing demand for fitness options in Big Rapids while giving the community an affordable and convenient way to exercise," said Mark Ansara, a Colliers retail advisor who worked on the deal.

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