Community Corner
The Chatham Club is now looking better than ever!
The Club recently received a renovation and here is what the proud owners have to say about it...
This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.
Looking Back: The Chatham Club has been a cornerstone of the community for five decades. What do you think has made the club such a lasting presence in the local fitness scene?
Our team has always been open to feedback from our staff and members wanting to make sure we answer the needs of the community whether it’s from having the latest equipment on the training floor, to offering the most popular group fitness classes. We also utilized two separate spaces within the fitness center for childcare dropoff. Parents often struggle with childcare for their little ones, and having certified caregivers on-staff, gives our members the chance to work out, knowing their children are also on-site, safe and mingling with their little friends.
Renovation Reveal: Can you share what inspired this renovation and what members can expect when they walk through the doors?
We received both member and club staff feedback about things we could do to make the club feel more modernized. The aesthetic of the design was to be in-line with the club’s core values (going beyond fitness) which ultimately represents openness and a sense of community. With this top of mind, we updated the lobby space to include cafe seating, an open coffee bar, comfortable chairs with charging stations, snacks and beverages for purchase, to name a few. This new setup gives our members the opportunity to stay and mingle with friends, set up a laptop and connect, and simply have downtime before or after their exercise routine.
Keeping Up with Trends: Fitness has changed a lot over the past 50 years. How has The Chatham Club adapted to evolving trends, and how will the new upgrades reflect those changes?
As in most things, the world of fitness has changed over the years. We have put a lot more of our resources toward group fitness classes as they are way more popular now then when the club opened in the late 70s. After joining the club as an employee in 1992, Lauren Quinn recently took on the role of Group Fitness Director, where she organizes 50+ fitness classes a week. Lauren has her finger on the pulse of what is trending in the fitness space and knows what types of classes are of interest to members, and the overall community. She brings in new, inspiring instructors to teach classes from pilates, to sculpt, to strength training. “These instructors have various levels of fitness background and know how to accommodate all levels of fitness, helping members reach their individual goals”. – Owner, Jim Rynar
Bill Lum, Owner, added, “Another void we recognized in the fitness community is having childcare onsite. By creating two separate nurseries for various age groups, we give our members the opportunity to work with a personal trainer, take a group fitness class or visit with friends in the lobby, while their children are being watched by our amazing certified caregivers.”
Building Community: Beyond workouts, The Chatham Club has always been a place for connection. How will the renovated spaces enhance the sense of community that the Chatham Club already embraces?
It’s an inviting, open environment that is inclusive, and promotes connection with other members - so The Chatham Club is more than a place to workout, it’s a place to see other people in the community and catch up over a cup of coffee or snack. The redesign of the lobby area is also more conducive to our semi-annual cocktail parties and events that we host for members, and their guests - further building a sense of connection beyond the gym.
First-Time Visitors: For someone considering joining the club for the first time, how would you describe the experience and atmosphere?
We have always been an inclusive, warm and welcoming environment. The staff greets its members by name when you walk in. The space is immaculate. Feedback we often received even before the renovation, was "the space is always spotless!" said Mary Feeley, Owner. This overall vibe existed before the renovation, but now the new footprint allows a space for people to stay longer and with enhanced seating and tables, etc. The Chatham Club has always had a strong Squash community. Our courts have been upgraded. There are new seats courtside for guests to watch and cheer on their family members and friends while they play.
Supporting Every Member: Fitness can feel intimidating for newcomers. How does The Chatham Club approach welcoming members of all ages and skill levels?
Our Sales Director, Kate McGinty, personally onboards every member by connecting them to personal trainers, group fitness instructors (based on their personal needs) and welcomes anyone new so they feel part of the club, day one. Members also receive complimentary squash assessments. Emails are sent introducing new members. There are squash round robins for all levels on Saturdays and Sundays for all levels - which are fun and friendly. All members receive a monthly newsletter called “The Chatham Club Happenings” that will explain upcoming events, classes and announcements. From emails, to social media and signage within the club - communication with members is key to creating connection.
.jpeg)
Looking Ahead: With these upgrades in place, what’s your vision for The Chatham Club in the next five to ten years—both as a fitness destination and as a hub for the local community?
People tell our owners all the time “Thank you for what you do. I just love it here”. When you have trainers or members who have worked here for 35 years they are more like family than neighbors. That is what makes us different and special. As our tagline reads, The Chatham Club, Fitness Close to Home”, isn’t just about geographically being close to home, but a place that is close to the heart.
Club Information: How Can the Neighbors Get More Information on Programs and Classes, etc.
We have lots of information on our website at www.chathamclub.com, Instagram & Facebook pages or email Kate McGinty at Kate@chathamclub.com for more information about the club and joining!
This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.
