Hundreds of gym members on the Treasure Coast are upset and sad to discover the doors of their local gym locked for good.
It was an unwelcome surprise Monday for customers of Nature’s Way Gym on US 1 in Fort Pierce.
Fitness Instructor Aaron Gomez discovered his Silver Sneakers and Zumba class, outside.
“It was good to come here and see everyone doing the exercises and smile and have a really, really good time," said Gomez.
Gomez was among those with no idea the bank had foreclosed on the property. Sheree Canfield was glad she waited to renew.
“I still have a while to go before I sign up, and I’m glad I did," said Canfield.
Barbara Wagner though was not as lucky.
“I just renewed my membership for 2 years to the tune of about $530," said Wagner.
What has long-time gym members so distressed is that the gym really was a second home.
“I have made in the years I’ve been here at least 100 friends that I go out to lunch with. If you don’t show up it’s “Where’s Barbara? where’s Jane? where’s Larry?" added Wagner.
NewsChannel 5 spoke over the phone with Mary Settle, the owner. She tearfully apologized to her clients and said while she loved their support, it just wasn’t enough as she had 10 days to come up with $50 thousand she didn’t have.
“It’s a real sad day. I’m sure the owner is having a real tough time," said Alina Smith, a long-time gym volunteer.
Settle added at 57, she has nothing left. After 35 years, she says it’s unlikely she’ll reopen the gym. As for her clients membership dues, she says any money left after the bank sells the building could go towards reimbursements.
