GreatLIFE shares an update as a management change approaches at Avera McKennan Fitness Center

November 25, 2024

This paid clip is sponsored by GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness.

GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness is preparing to become the manager of the long-time Avera McKennan Fitness Center and prepare to offer members new and expanded options there.

The change takes place Dec. 1, when the fitness center at 3400 S. Southeastern Ave will close and reopen the next day as GreatLIFE at Avera McKennan Fitness Center.

“I can say that since we announced the change it’s been great,” said Randall Hill, GreatLIFE’s vice president of fitness.

“I’ve talked to a lot of people who are founding members here, so we value longevity and loyalty and the relationships that are built here. We’re a very relationship-based company. We think that’s important in everything we do. So we want to see as many current members stay as possible who have built those relationships, and we want to realize how invested these many members are in the experience they get here.”

For current Avera McKennan Fitness Center members, the transition to GreatLIFE will bring many new options.

“Our goal is to grow what’s here — not take things away,” Hill said. “Being part of GreatLIFE allows members access to 17 additional GreatLIFE services, many with 24-hour access, and expands the gym’s offerings for classes and personal training. each, including all the benefits of GreatLIFE membership.”

GreatLIFE will expand the hours at the gym to reflect what is offered at Woodlake Athletic Club: 5 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday, 7 am to 9 pm Saturday and 10 am to 9 pm Sunday.

“This will allow for many more options,” Hill said. “We’re looking forward to special family swim and fitness sessions in the evenings, as well as other family activities while the gym is closed.”

GreatLIFE and Avera “share a passion for health,” said Dr. Ron Place, president and CEO of Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center.

“Working together to impact the health of our community is something we both really enjoy. We look forward to a great partnership.”

For current GreatLIFE members, the expanded access to the Avera McKennan Fitness Center means adding the second largest fitness center within GreatLIFE and the largest in the east.

“Our members enjoy features like the full-length swimming pool and boardwalk,” Hill said. In addition, it offers many options for group exercise classes and a full-service health center, especially for those living in the growing east side.

A steam room is another new addition for GreatLIFE, and there is also a whirlpool in each locker room and a dedicated yoga studio.

GreatLIFE will continue to offer lap swimming, will provide towels and will not offer childcare – although it is still an option at Woodlake and Performance Center.

The cafe, CNC Food Factory, will operate as usual, and Avera will continue to offer physical therapy in the building.

“These are some of the most common questions we get,” Hill said. “We spent a lot of time there answering questions, and we will continue to be there and help guide members through this transition.”

All GreatLIFE members will also receive two free guest passes each year and can bring children 12 and under for a $5 pass.

“We’ve heard from a lot of people who are excited to bring their grandchildren here,” Hill said. “It’s a great option for families, but we’re careful to schedule times so that there are dedicated hours for kids, and members are still able to have more access to lap swimming.”

Want to try before you commit to membership? Enjoy a seven-day free trial starting in December.

“This is an easy way to look at everything we have to offer, both in this new fitness center and in the wider GreatLIFE community,” said Hill.

Member appreciation party

GreatLIFE members at Avera McKennan Fitness Center and all GreatLIFE members are invited to the annual Thanksgiving celebration from 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 7 at Woodlake Athletic Club. Enjoy food, drinks, prizes and get to know your members, plus all the benefits of GreatLIFE!

If you’ve been thinking about joining GreatLIFE, now is the time! You’ll enjoy unlimited access to all fitness facilities, including the new Avera McKennan facility, as well as unlimited golf options and save on your favorite items every day in Sioux County Falls even more. Click here to get started.