A new physical fitness facility in Falher will open next month just in time to start that ever-popular New Year’s resolution to keep fit and active. Catering to all people, the centre will open at Falher Regional Recreation Complex in the old arena upstairs on Jan. 1 under the Falher Recreation Development Society. “We believe a fitness centre is ideal for this space,” says Christine Aubin, who chairs the fitness centre committee of the recreation society. “Fitness is important because people who are physically active and practise healthy lifestyle behaviours, exhibit fewer health problems.” “Generally, they have more energy, a greater ability to cope with stress, and have a more positive outlook on life,” says Aubin. A contest is being held for a name and logo for the facility. The winning name will be announced Dec. 29 during the home game of the Falher Pirates North Peace Hockey League team. Entries can be submitted in Falher at Za-Hair-A Hair and Tanning and at Nine-to-Five Hairstyles. “We encourage everyone of all ages and fitness levels to use the facility, along with sports and school teams, groups and other organizations,” says Aubin. “There’s something for everyone and we want to make it usable and affordable.” Youth ages 12 to 16 must be accompanied by a parent or adult in the facility, which has extensive equipment and weights. “Some of our cardiovascular equipment faces the hockey arena, so you can exercise and watch a sporting event at the same time,” says Aubin. Other cardiovascular equipment includes spin bicycles, treadmills, rowing machine, eliptical, recumbent bicycle, assisted chin-up and assisted dip-up and a calf machine. “We’ve got lots of free weights from 12 to 100 pounds, leg press, bench press, and Smith machine,” says Aubin. Equipment is being leased from Flaman Fitness and Apple Fitness, as the recreation considers applying for more funding to expand the facility. “We want to develop this facility in phases,” says Aubin. “Eventually, we want to add a wall in the centre of the facility to create a dance exercise studio.” Showers and expanded change rooms are also in the plans for the fitness centre, which is using the space free from the recreation development society, she says. Membership fees are $350 annually, $100 for an additional family member 16 and older, and $50 for additional family member 12 to 15 years of age. Monthly rates are $50 and $10 for drop-in. Members will be able to use the facility daily from 5 a.m. to 12 midnight with a punch code to enter the gym. For more information, phone committee members including Aubin (925-2686), Lise Cote (837-3212), Sharon Wolfe, Monique Simard, and Ginette Aubin.