Like many businesses affected by the pandemic, Mentor’s Contours fitness center has had to make adjustments.
Fortunately, these changes turned out to be favorable.
Before state-mandated businesses closed in 2020, a robust roster of nearly 500 members in the women-only facility shrank nearly 40 percent. Due to declining numbers and lost revenue, Monica Tatterson recently stated that she had no choice but to announce the gym’s closure in June.
The loyal members who have been playing sports as well as socializing there for years are shocked and sad
from the news.
Urging the group to somehow remain open, Tatterson devised a downsizing strategy.
The fitness center, which initially occupied about two-thirds of its current size when it opened 16 years ago, is now planned to be scaled back to its original smaller size, resulting in affordable operating costs for Tatterson.
She had expanded the gym a few years ago when a growing membership generated the need for additional room.
Those who were disappointed to hear of the impending closure are glad the transition will take place. Among them is longtime member and resident Mentor Pat Mazzolini.
“I am really enjoying coming here. I was worried about Monica and my future coaching. I am happy now that it is resolved,” she said, adding, “It has been difficult during COVID. I missed it. My body has missed it. I tried to work out at home but I didn’t get a good performance.”
Although membership is open to women of all ages, membership consists primarily of those 60 years of age or older. Costs are often covered by insurance benefits, including Silver Sneakers, Renew Active, Optum Fitness, Silver & Fit, and Active & Fit.
Many members claim to enjoy the only women’s gym in Lake County due to the pleasant atmosphere that encourages individual exercise with those in similar peer groups.
Josie Lar is a staff member and experienced fitness professional who teaches some of the many classes offered at Contours. She attributes part of the gym’s popularity to its women-only component and “non-threatening” environment.
“The ladies just love this place,” she said, adding that many of the former members she had contacted about joining again were appreciated and accepted.
Various exercise machines, free weights, and classes including Pound, Zumba, Chair Yoga and more are available to help promote and maintain good health. Classes are open to members for $5 and non-members for $7.
Personal trainer Jillian Cole is available for those looking for individual fitness sessions. Although some members were slow to get back to the gym, her clients showed no hesitation.
“Once the doors opened,” she said, “in a matter of months, I got almost everyone back.”
Tatterson, whose husband Jason is pastor of the Freedom Assembly of God Church in Mentor, started the Contours operation in Eastlake before the Mentor facility opened.
Her hectic work schedule convinced her that the Eastlake closure would allow her more time to focus on Mentor’s solo gym along with her responsibilities as the church’s youth chaplain.
The business owner noted that the challenges arising from the original emergence of the coronavirus in 2020 have grown exponentially over time.
“People were slowly coming back when the second wave hit during the holidays in 2021,” she said.
The length of time people have been away for fear of getting sick has prompted some to give up their exercise habit or develop a different exercise routine.
The loss of membership and its negative consequences have been difficult for Tatterson, but her optimism remains high.
“I feel proud,” she said.
Contour Express for Women is located at 6966 Hesley Road in Mentor.
