Michael J. Brooks / Special to the Reporter

HELENA – Helena city officials participated in a ribbon-cutting on Friday, Nov. 2 at the Helena Fit Body Boot Camp in the Riverwoods Shopping Plaza and Manager Hil Fradenburg said he was excited about the new business.

“We had a ‘soft opening’ on Sept. 26,” Fradenburg said. “But today is special because our friends in city government are here to help us celebrate.”

Fradenburg said the Helena establishment is part of a national franchise with additional Alabama locations in Trussville and Mobile. He said Fit Body offers a unique workout regime.

“We do 30-minute high intensity workouts in groups,” he said. “Exercisers burn calories and reach a higher metabolism to burn more calories over the next 24-36 hours. We book every 45 minutes and get started at 5:30 each morning for convenience.”

Fradenburg said though the gym promotes a group environment, a coach is always present, and the exercise regime can be modified up or down for individuals.

“We have an app that comes with membership that’s truly amazing,” Fradenburg said. “It offers recipes, meal plans and even grocery lists. We aim to make the lives of our members better in every way.”

Fradenburg studied kinesiology at Mississippi State University, where he graduated last year, and later earned his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification.

Andy Healy, president of the Helena Business Association, was on hand to help welcome the new business.

“This is something we’ve not had before,” Healy said. “We have other fitness gyms and they’re excellent, but Fit Body offers a truly dedicated product our residents have been asking for.”

Healy said the Helena community is focused on fitness and health and is proud of the many trails and community parks.

Fradenburg said Fit Body offers several membership options, including monthly, semi-annual and annual. The six- and 12-month plans offer additional free months as a premium.

The Helena Fit Body Boot Camp is located at 500 Riverwoods Court, Suites D and E in Helena. The business can be reached at 277-9800.