Gym Profile: 501FIT

Nestled in a naturally lit industrial space above CorePower Yoga in downtown Minneapolis, 501FIT is one of the latest small-scale gyms to hit the Twin Cities. Exposed brick walls, citron-green accents, and large windows act as a backdrop to state-of-the art fitness equipment—much of it custom-designed by founder and fitness director Phil Martens.

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Having more than ten years of fitness training under his belt, Martens sought to combine all of his favorite gym equipment into one compact machine. He invented and designed the G-Werx Gym, which is used in 501's unique strength training classes. Featuring a patented "Flexchange System," the G-Werx uses dumbbells as resistance for machine exercise. The combination of free weights and machine offers more than 100 ways to tone and strengthen the entire body. Each class participant works on his or her own machine, so resistance can vary based on fitness level.

Other 501FIT amenities include:

• A fully stocked free weight room
• Rows of cardio equipment 
• Tidy locker rooms
• Showers
• Free towel service
• Massage therapy
• Personal training
• Nutritional consultations
• Self-defense clinics

Although large enough (and open enough) to avoid feeling cramped, 501 is intimate enough to allow for fellow gym members to know you by name. And for many city dwellers, it will be a welcome alternative to the large-scale chain gyms that dot the metro.

Give it a try: New visitors can try a week's worth of classes for only $5.01.

Call 612-767-4415 or email info@501FIT.com for more information.



501FIT, 501 Washington Ave. S., Mpls., 612-767-4415