Shaping Up Fort Point

If you’re anything like me, when asked about the perfect combination of art and physical fitness you likely conjure thespian bodybuilder Arnold Swarzenegger from one of his various acting roles. Perhaps you picture the massive Hungarian in Kindergarten Cop, or given the season, his tour de force with Sinbad as costar, Jingle all the Way. But nestled inside the heart of Fort Point, Channel Fitness—the owner-run and operated fitness center—is paying homage to our neighborhood’s long standing tradition of the arts in a way that puts the seven time Mr. Olympia to shame.

Above photo courtesy of Channel Fitness

Located at 303 Congress Street, and facing the Fort Point Channel, one of Channel Fitness’ main goals has been to become an integral part of the Fort Point Community. Managing Partner Erica Duggan explains, “Artists are the very foundation of what makes the Fort Point area so unique and it is very important to us that we develop and nurture a strong connection with that facet of the community. To do that, we utilize our large space to display the works of Fort Point artists.”

The fitness center features a rotating show of FPAC artists and in the last 6 months they have showcased three different artists. The duration of each exhibition varies and is determined by the gym and the artist. Currently on display are photographs by Fort Pointers Karen McFeaters and Larry Plitt featuring images captured throughout the neighborhood.  

Above photos by Karen McFeaters & Larry Plitt

The importance of neighborhood extends into the basic operating philosophy of the gym as well. In talking with Duggan she says, “Channel Fitness brings a unique quality to the Fort Point Community that you don’t see every day in a gym. We promise that you’re not a number here. It is one of our main goals to know the name of everyone who walks through our door.” Further, the ideal location makes it impossible not to appreciate the beauty of this area of Boston. “When you walk on the treadmill or ride one of the bikes, your view is of the water and the city.”

For their art lending program each artist receives a complimentary membership for the duration of their show, with the option of an artist’s reception to launch the event. Duggan says, “We are grateful that this program has been an organic process. In one instance, the artist was already a member and in another, we researched local artists and approached them about hanging their work in the gym.” Further, Channel Fitness doesn’t take any commission on sales. “No,” Duggan explains, “we want to do this to strengthen our relationship with the Fort Point Arts Community. We feel it’s our privilege to promote the works of the artist.”

In a neighborhood that is heavy with change, Channel Fitness is a model neighbor due to their focus on art and artists, as well as their community spirit.  As Duggan says, “We have developed a strong relationship with the Fort Point Arts Community. When Channel took over ownership over a year ago, we knew it was important to gain the trust and respect of FPAC so we developed an offer that still stands today—where every FPAC member pays our lowest rate of $59/month.”

Above photos courtesy of Channel Fitness

But don’t let their neighborhood feel and atmosphere fool you, as Channel Fitness offers top-notch space for fitness and extensive equipment. “We have some of the greatest instructors and trainers in the Boston area whose main goal is to help you get healthier,” says Duggan. “We’re owner-run and operated so if there is ever an issue, it is resolved quickly and efficiently. We have a vested interest in making this community the strongest in the region. We have just added a pay-per-class membership where you buy a class or a pack of classes. You don’t need to be a member to take advantage! We added 6 new classes to the schedule including Zumba and Combat Conditioning.”

So, you can take your pick—either blender up your art and fitness by watching Arnold and Danny Devito flirt with artistic genius in the comedy blockbuster Twins one more time, or head over to Channel Fitness and start fighting off those extra holiday pounds while you still have a chance. - Kurt Cole Eidsvig

 

Channel Fitness is open Monday – Friday 5:45am-9pm; Saturday and Sunday 9am-3pm. For more on the gym and their current offers visit ChannelYourFitness.com

About the Author: Kurt Cole Eidsvig is an artist and poet who lives and works in Fort Point. To learn more about Eidsvig visit http://www.kurtcoleeidsvig.com/