Continuing to anchor itself as the premier fitness destination for adults 50 or older, Welcyon, Fitness After 50, has unveiled an all-new interior décor package that features a more spa-like ambiance designed to inspire and motivate members and make them feel at home.
Partnering with nationally renowned health club designer Bruce Carter – who has designed clubs for most of the major chains including Fitness Evolution, Planet Fitness and Gold’s Gym, as well as hotel chains like the Sheraton, Hilton and Westin – Welcyon melded natural elements, soft lighting and sleek technology to create a relaxing, spa-like ambiance. The result is sophisticated and upscale, yet wonderfully warm and welcoming.
The new design was unveiled in January 2015 with the opening of Weclyon’s newest clubs in Boise, ID and Burnsville, MN. It will be the standard for all future clubs.
“You feel at home as soon as you walk in the door,” said Suzy Boerboom, co-founder and CEO of Welcyon, Fitness After 50. “In that way, the new design truly reflects our culture and our mission. It speaks to our friendly, down-to-earth approach. Sure, we’re serious about fitness, but whoever said working out can’t be fun? That’s why our members come here, and this space captures that spirit perfectly.”
Carter designed the prototype to reflect Welcyon’s relaxed, accepting culture, while creating another level of psychological motivation. “You walk into a warm, inviting lobby that creates a sense of separation from the workout area. It’s relaxing, so you’re not overwhelmed by the sense that you’ve got to jump right in and start exercising,” he said.
From the soothing waterfall and bamboo trees in its comfortable lounge area to the brilliant nature graphics enlivening the workout room, the design offers nourishment for the senses and stimulation for the mind. Part playground, part sanctuary, it evokes new possibilities for what a health club can be in the 21st century.
“Given the club’s discriminating clientele, the new design had to be upscale and sophisticated, but not exclusive or intimidating. There had to be an element of playfulness and fun. All of this is reflected in the colors and finishes we chose. The space had to say, we’re serious about fitness, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re accessible and approachable. You will feel at home here,” Carter added.
Within this new club design, Welcyon’s specially trained staff, safer user-friendly equipment powered by Smart Card technology and personalized workout and nutrition plans will remain a staple of the revolutionary clubs.
“Creating an exceptional fitness club like Welcyon requires attention to every detail, from program design and equipment to expert coaches dedicated to delivering the best possible member experience. But to be truly successful, all of these elements must come together in a physical space where members feel inspired and motivated,” Boerboom said. “This is what we set out to achieve with our new design and décor concept.”
