Optimizations are a big part of the Great Neck lifestyle. Look around: Clearly, optimizing fitness and wellbeing is too.
Corporate fitness centers, workout gyms and private studios seem to be everywhere in town, the rookies and the established. Insiders know the differences between them and why people gravitate toward each are less about branding and equipment, and more about psychology, identity, and personal goals.
Kings Point Fitness is a local gym and fitness center focused on strength training, cardio, and overall fitness. For many, it is a go-to spot, well run with a friendly vibe. KPF is now entering its twenty-sixth year in business (at the same location!!), located at 770 Middle Neck Road. Obviously, KPF has partnered well with its landlord. So, to all you naysayers, there are property owners in our midst in Great Neck who partner with their tenants’ success and offer reasonable rents.Take note!
How it StartedBehind Kings Point Fitness are two lifelong friends, Victor Bianchi, formerly of Wall Street, and Jerry Cooney, a former physical education teacher. Bianchi and Cooney were totally in sync when we met at my office recently, finishing each other’s sentences as they explained the triumph of their business model. Wanting to learn what makes them tick, I asked each of them to describe the other’s qualities and approach. The short list? Bianchi is disciplined, friendly, and results-driven. Cooney is loyal, caring and patient.
Decades ago, they both pivoted to physical training as a side gig from their initial careers, starting at other local gyms. Steadily, they built their client base as they pursued their passion for helping others in the community achieve their fitness goals. These two have seen it all. Demographically and otherwise. Throughout the years, they remained serious about their business, and are at it seven days a week. “We are not just trainers,” said Cooney. Or as Vic put it, “Kings Point Fitness is a ‘one stop network’”.
How its GoingBusiness is booming. KPF’s clientele ranges from young students and beginners to seasoned seniors. Strength training is more popular than ever, and the guys mix in ball work, Pilates, kick boxing, depending on the client’s needs. Generally speaking, the younger generation seeks sport-specific weight training. The older set is more interested in functional work, balance and rehabilitation.
Bianchi and Cooney offer a membership club with plans tailored to their members’ specific needs. Membership has its privileges: Clients get access to the 13 cardio machines and 20 weight machines at the studio.
Bianchi and Cooney are on-site daily to help and guide their clientele, train them, and ensure proper form. For those who need one-on-one support, KPF offers specialized personal training by the hour (with no membership needed) by on-site staff or independent trainers who use the KPF facilities. Some members steadfastly follow fitness influencers online, and train via YouTube on their phones– but of course, nothing beats the KPF experience.
KPF is a tight-knit community and values relationships.
“It’s customized, every face and name is known,” said Bianchi.
Source: LI Press