Waskatenau’s state-of-the-art fitness centre has 24-hour access 

 By Alan Kausy

The modern and fully-equipped fitness centre within Waskatenau’s multi-purpose complex building has entered its fifth year of existence, and they are currently welcoming new members.

The Victoria Trail Agricultural Society (VTAS), established in 1961, is operationally responsible for the facility. They performed extensive renovations to create a workout gym accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Two types of elliptical machines, treadmills, stationary and recumbent bikes, a rowing machine, dumbbells, plated weights, a squat rack, bench press, weighted balls, and cable and pulley systems and many adjustable benches and weight lifting bars were all brand new purchases.

The modern men and women change rooms each has a shower and washroom. The 3000 square-foot facility is always cleaned and disinfected by janitorial staff, and washcloths for wiping down equipment are also laundered daily. VTAS volunteers performed this work.

Wi-Fi is throughout, and patrons can play music if they wish. ‘Biddiscombe Glassworks Ltd,’ based in Redwater, installed the mirrors situated within the gym.

A variety of yearly or monthly membership options exist, or one can pay a $10, single-use, drop-in fee. Standard adult membership costs $50 per month or $500 a year. A family rate can be applied for $900/year, allowing two adults and two youths to use the gym.

Alberta Health Services employees and their immediate family members are entitled to a 10% discount. Senior rates are $35/month or $350 a year. A Corporate Wellness Package encourages company membership, and a 10% to 25% discounted rate would be applied, depending on how many staff members enroll.

Entry to the gym is gained by using one’s cell phone, or a key fob can be acquired with a $50 refundable deposit.

The fitness centre is part of the complex, and a heated horse riding arena has replaced the former ice rink. 4H Clubs use the arena for their achievement days while livestock clinics, cattle sales and farm equipment shows have all been held here. The H A Kostash archery team has also rented the multi-purpose facility, which can seat 150 people.

To rent the riding arena or find more information, visit the VTAS website at www.victoriatrailag.com.

Further information about the fitness centre can be found at www.vtasfitnesscentre.com.

Sandra is the volunteer manager of the gym, and she can be reached by phone or text at 780-258-0024.

The orange and white complex building is located at 5004 52 Avenue, Waskatenau, AB.