The ultimate fitness experience

Ever evolving with nonstop enhancements, Life Clubs of Lawrence gives its members endless reasons to say yes to fitness. Offering ultimate luxury in service, amenities and ambience, Life Clubs allows members to expect a health club experience that will rival the finest.

After 10 years on the management team of Equinox Fitness Clubs in Manhattan, where he assisted in growing eight clubs into 50, Ed Ruane saw the opportunity to do great things for the South Shore community. Ruane, of the Upper East Side, and Stephen Katz, of Hewlett Harbor, joined forces to turn the former Hollywood Atrium into Life Clubs of Lawrence. Katz brings a lifetime of seasoned business expertise, and Ruane has 25 years in the fitness industry, 15 of which were in the Five Towns.

The partnership promises to be a dynamic and productive venture. “Our plan is to perfect this club model and expand our brand offering to other communities in the Metropolitan area and Long Island,” said Ruane.

Over $500,000 of investments have been poured into Life Clubs over the last 10 months. The 50,000 square foot center is spacious yet warm and welcoming. Up front are comfy leather couches and the Life Lounge Cafe. Wi Fi is accessible throughout the lobby, complete with free Internet stations.

The Shop sells active wear and a multitude of sports accessories. For children from 4-months-old to 11-years, there is a fully equipped nursery with computers and giant plasma TV. “All decisions we make are based on improving the members’ experience,” said Ruane.

Each cardio machine has its own flat screen TV. TRX suspension training systems are being set up in the 6,000 square foot sports court, where you will find basketball, Wally ball, soccer and racquetball. New equipment fills the free-weight and spinning rooms.

In the works is a spectacular Pilates Reformer Studio for both members and non-members. There is even an electronic water station. The entire parking lot is being renovated, adding 30 additional parking stalls.

On site is a state-of-the-art physical therapy area, which is manned by Life’s partner, Dynamic Care. Provided is insurance-reimbursable treatment for injuries, conditions and rehabilitation.

After a workout, comfort abounds. Rich wood and ceramic tiles make each locker room a luxurious place to be. You’ll find saunas, steam rooms, and tanning. Showers have amenities like mint shampoo, rosemary conditioner, aloe shaving cream, cucumber body wash, razors and more. Make-up and dressing stations have Italian Prosalano hair dryers. And renowned licensed massage therapist Michele Weeks is available for your massage needs.

“Life has been attracting some of the best fitness talent in the New York Metropolitan area. Many of our instructors are nationally renowned, having trained at places like Canyon Ranch, Equinox Fitness and Sports Club LA.” During a walkthrough we spotted celebrity instructor Yves Maco leading a high energy kick boxing class of nearly 70 members.

Over 65 different group fitness classes are offered weekly. Classes include Zumba, Spinning, Boot Camp and even Sharqui, a belly dance workout. Seniors can enjoy Silver Life classes, designed for flexibility, mobility and strength.

Gym Safety and Etiquette classes are offered to teens from 13 to 18. In addition to one-on-one personal training, small group training is also available. Membership age spans from 13 to 100. The club is available for children’s birthday parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, and other venue functions.

Club hours are 5 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., except for Sunday, when they close at 8 p.m. Gift certificates are available.